The Indian Premier League (IPL) never fails to deliver jaw-dropping moments, but this time, it wasn’t a cricketer in the spotlight—it was a fan. Aaryapriya Bhuyan, a 19-year-old student from Guwahati, became an overnight sensation after her stunned reaction to MS Dhoni’s dismissal during the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) vs Rajasthan Royals (RR) match went viral.
Her expression, caught live on camera, quickly exploded across social media, transforming into a meme that resonated with cricket fans everywhere. Speaking exclusively to us, Aaryapriya opened up about her unexpected internet fame, unwavering love for CSK, and faith in the team’s resurgence.
Before that fateful night, Aaryapriya was another CSK fan eagerly waiting to witness her favorite team in action. 'I had less than 1,000 followers on Instagram. I never imagined this would happen to me. I usually post travel pictures whenever I feel like it,' she shared.
That changed overnight. Now boasting over 150K Instagram followers, she recalls the surreal experience. 'I was so excited to watch CSK play live—it was a dream come true! I was cheering my heart out, fully believing we’d win.'
It wasn’t until she got home that she realized she had become a viral sensation. 'My friends kept messaging me, saying they saw me on TV. At first, I was just happy they spotted me. I had no idea it would turn into such a big deal,' she laughed.
The clip of her disappointment following Dhoni’s wicket—caught for 16 runs by Shimron Hetmyer—struck a chord with CSK fans nationwide. 'I wasn’t thinking at that moment; it was just a spontaneous reaction. Like every CSK supporter, I trust Dhoni, and watching him get out was heartbreaking,' she explained.
Aaryapriya’s love for CSK started in childhood, thanks to her older sister. 'She introduced me to the team and Dhoni when I was nine or ten. Since then, I’ve been a die-hard fan,' she reminisced.
Despite CSK’s rocky start this season, she remains confident in their ability to turn things around. 'I think the team needs some adjustments in the batting lineup, but I have full faith in them. They will make a comeback and lift their sixth title this year,' she predicted.
Going viral has been an overwhelming experience for Aaryapriya. 'This is all very new to me. My friends keep sending me reels of my reaction—they’re so excited to see me everywhere on social media,' she said.
Her family, too, has been incredibly supportive. 'They’ve been so kind and positive about everything. I’m grateful,, she added.
As the IPL season progresses, Aaryapriya’s moment serves as a reminder of the sheer passion and emotion that cricket evokes. Whether or not CSK clinches the trophy, one thing is certain—her love for the team and Dhoni remains unshaken.
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