Virat Kohli became the centre‑piece of a viral prank on 3 Jul 2026 when a lookalike in an RCB jersey sparked a frenzy at Lucknow’s Lulu Mall, drawing crowds and flooding social platforms with reactions.

What happened at Lulu Mall?

A video posted on Instagram showed a man, dressed in a bright RCB jersey and sporting a striking moustache, mimicking Kohli’s signature pose. He roamed the mall’s food court, challenging shoppers to a selfie. Within minutes, on‑lookers gathered, phones out, hoping to capture the moment. The clip, uploaded by a local influencer, amassed over 2 million views in 24 hours, turning the mall into an impromptu fan zone.

Why the lookalike drew such attention?

Kohli’s recent form in the IPL has kept him in headlines, and his brand value remains sky‑high. Fans often seek any glimpse of his likeness, especially in a city where the Royal Challengers Bangalore have a massive following. The prank tapped into that appetite, offering a playful stand‑in that felt almost authentic. Moreover, the timing coincided with the IPL’s mid‑season hype, amplifying the buzz.

How the mall responded

Lulu Mall’s management quickly embraced the moment, posting a thank‑you note on their official page and offering a discount coupon to anyone who posted a photo with the lookalike. Security staff ensured the crowd stayed orderly, while the prankster handed out small RCB‑themed giveaways. The mall reported a 12 % rise in footfall that afternoon, according to their sales director, Priya Sharma.

What does this mean for Virat Kohli’s brand?

Even an unofficial impersonation can boost a star’s marketability. Brands linked to Kohli, such as Puma and MRF, see heightened engagement whenever his image surfaces online. The viral clip generated over 500 k additional mentions of his name on Twitter, providing free publicity that aligns with his endorsement strategy. Analysts suggest such organic moments reinforce his status as a cultural icon beyond the cricket field.

Will there be more lookalike stunts?

The success of the Lucknow prank has already inspired copycats. A similar video surfaced from a Chennai mall on 5 Jul, featuring a Kohli doppelgänger in a Chennai Super Kings cap. Experts predict a wave of fan‑driven impersonations during the IPL’s climax, each feeding the star’s ever‑growing digital footprint.

The episode underscores how a simple act—someone dressing like a cricket legend—can ripple through media, commerce, and fan culture, all while keeping Virat Kohli at the heart of the conversation.