Today, Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) A key player for India, Varun is known as a mystery spinner. But behind the calm demeanor on the field is a story filled with anxiety, late starts and emotional struggles that almost overwhelmed him.
Like many cricketers who start their IPL career at the age of 20, Varun entered the league at the age of 28 – a time when most players are already established. This late entry created immense pressure, self-doubt and fear about the future.
Varun Chakraborty opens up on panic attacks, insomnia and mental health struggles
When asked directly about panic attacks, Varun didn’t hesitate:
“Yeah… during my first two IPL seasons, I had panic attacks every night.”
This wasn’t just occasional stress – it was a constant mental health struggle. He revealed that he often:
- woke up completely drenched in sweat
- felt constant anxiety and restlessness
- struggled to sleep without medication
- experienced great uncertainty about life
At that time, life seemed directionless. Before cricket, Varun also tried his luck in the film industry – but that path did not pan out. Financial instability added another layer of stress. They had no steady income, no job security, and even personal milestones like marriage seemed uncertain.
The combination of this career pressure and personal instability created a perfect storm for anxiety.
Varun’s wife’s role: A pillar of strength
Amidst all this chaos, one enduring source of strength stood by him – his wife.
Varun candidly admitted: “My wife played an important role in calming me down.”
Varun’s wife (Neha Khedekar) Her emotional support helped guide her through those dark nights when panic attacks seemed unbearable. In a high-pressure career like cricket, where performance defines life, personal support systems often become the difference between breaking down and bouncing back.
The reality behind a cricketer’s life
Varun also busted a common myth:
“People think that the life of a cricketer is easy and glamorous… but it is true only for 5%. The remaining 95% struggle all their lives.”
This statement resonates deeply.
While fans see packed stadiums, big contracts, and fame, the invisible reality includes:
- Years of uncertainty and rejection
- constant performance pressure
- Fear of being replaced or dropped
- Financial instability, especially in the beginning
For Varun, late entry meant that he was always “Were playing catch-up.” He had to prove himself faster, work harder, and compete against younger, more experienced players.
From struggle to stability: Varun’s rise in KKR
Despite the difficulties, Varun turned his struggles into strengths.
Today, he is an important part of KKR’s bowling unit, known for his variations and control. But the journey to sustainability wasn’t overnight – it took years of persistence, mental resilience, and self-belief.
He now views his early struggles not as failures but as building blocks that shaped his mindset and performance.
KKR, the three-time IPL champions, will begin their IPL 2026 with a challenging encounter against Mumbai Indians at the iconic Wankhede Stadium on Sunday, March 29. It’s a high-pressure debut that offers lots of exciting possibilities. Soon after, KKR will return to Kolkata, where they will face Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) on Thursday, April 2. This match will mark the beginning of their home leg, where a large number of enthusiastic fans are expected to support the team and create a lively atmosphere.
