Keshav Maharaj, the vice-captain of the South African cricket team, is one of the world’s finest left-arm orthodox spin bowlers. Known for his sharp spin and resilience, Keshav has steadily risen through the ranks since his international debut. Beyond cricket, his life is deeply intertwined with his Indian heritage, spirituality, and a love story with an Indian Kathak dancer, Lerisha Munsamy. Here’s a deeper look into the personal and professional journey of this South African cricket star.
Rising Through the Cricket Ranks
Keshav Maharaj’s international career kicked off in 2016 when he made his Test debut, followed by his selection for the ODI squad in 2017. Over the course of six years, he established himself as a key player for South Africa. Known not just for his bowling prowess, but also for his batting abilities, Keshav has often stepped up to save his team in crucial moments, both for South Africa and his domestic side, the Dolphins.
Early Cricketing Days
Long before his international success, Keshav’s talent shone through in South Africa’s domestic cricket. He made his first-class debut at just 16, representing KwaZulu-Natal in the 2006-07 season. His consistent performances earned him a spot in the Dolphins squad in the 2009-10 season, where he quickly became one of the standout players.
Indian Heritage: Roots in Sultanpur
Keshav Maharaj was born on February 7, 1990, in Durban, South Africa, to Atmanand and Kanchan Mala. Though he is South African by birth, his connection to India runs deep. His forefathers originally hailed from Sultanpur, a town in Uttar Pradesh, India. In 1874, his ancestors migrated to South Africa in search of better opportunities. Despite growing up in South Africa, Keshav maintains a strong connection to his Indian roots, often expressing his admiration for Indian culture and traditions.
Love and Marriage: Meeting Lerisha Munsamy
Keshav’s love story with Lerisha Munsamy, a professional Kathak dancer, reflects his close bond with Indian culture. The two met through mutual friends and quickly developed a connection. After dating for a few years, Keshav proposed to Lerisha in 2019. However, their wedding was postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the passing of a family member. They eventually tied the knot in 2022 in a traditional Indian ceremony, a nod to Keshav’s cultural heritage.
Lerisha Munsamy: The Star Dancer
Lerisha, who enjoys a massive fanbase on social media, is an accomplished Kathak dancer with over 47,000 followers on Instagram. Known for her elegant dance performances, she regularly shares moments from her life with Keshav, giving fans glimpses of their dates, family vacations, and cultural events. Her stunning dance videos often captivate her audience, making her a celebrated figure in her own right.
A Unique Love Story
Keshav and Lerisha’s love story is filled with charming moments. On their first date, it was Lerisha who arrived late, but Keshav’s patience and understanding won her over. One notable milestone in their relationship was when Keshav performed a Kathak dance with Lerisha on his mother’s 50th birthday. This special performance deeply impressed his mother and helped solidify Lerisha’s place in the family, leading to their eventual marriage.
Spirituality and Symbolism: Keshav’s Faith
Keshav Maharaj’s connection to Indian culture extends beyond his ancestry. He is a devout follower of Lord Hanuman, one of the most revered deities in Hinduism. His spirituality became evident to the world when fans noticed the sacred “Om” symbol on his cricket bat during a World Cup match in October 2023 against the Netherlands. The ‘Om’ symbol, a sacred syllable in Hinduism, sparked widespread discussion and admiration for Keshav’s public display of faith.
Beyond the symbolism, Keshav is known to regularly visit Hindu temples and seek blessings from Lord Hanuman before significant matches, reflecting his deep spiritual beliefs.
Financial Success: Keshav’s Net Worth and Earnings
As of 2023, Keshav Maharaj’s net worth is estimated to be around $5 million, which is approximately 41.6 crore Indian Rupees. His wealth primarily stems from his cricket career, including his contracts with the South African Cricket Board and various domestic teams.
Cricket Earnings Breakdown
Keshav’s earnings vary based on the format of the game:
- Test Matches: $281,250
- ODI Matches: $75,000
- T20I Matches: $50,000
In addition to his national team earnings, Keshav has also played for various teams, including KwaZulu-Natal, Dolphins, Lancashire, Durban Heat, Yorkshire, and Durban Super Giants. In 2023, he earned $150,000 playing for Durban Super Giants in franchise cricket.
