Vijay Mallya, once dubbed the “King of Good Times”, has once again found himself at the center of online chatter. This time, it’s not due to legal battles or financial woes, but rather a viral image that’s capturing social media by storm. The photo features Mallya alongside former West Indies cricketer Chris Gayle and IPL founder Lalit Modi — all three flashing broad smiles in what appears to be a relaxed and jovial setting.
The image, which began circulating widely on July 3, 2025, has triggered a wave of curiosity, speculation, and memes online. Shared by a fan page on X (formerly Twitter), the photo has been reshared thousands of times and sparked debates over where and why the trio met. The viral picture shows the three prominent personalities in stylish attire, with an ambiance that hints at luxury — a nod to the extravagant lifestyles each of them is known for.
Who Are the Men in the Frame?
Vijay Mallya, the fugitive businessman behind the defunct Kingfisher Airlines and former owner of Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), has been residing in the UK, fighting extradition to India on charges of fraud and money laundering.
Chris Gayle, known for his flamboyant style and powerful batting, was once a star player for Mallya’s RCB team in the Indian Premier League (IPL). The Jamaican cricketer and Mallya reportedly share a good relationship off the field as well.
Lalit Modi, the architect of the IPL, has been in exile since allegations of financial misconduct surfaced during his tenure as IPL commissioner. He now lives in London and is occasionally seen in social circles involving influential names.
Social Media Reactions
Users on X and Instagram were quick to react. While some joked about the trio launching a new IPL 2.0 from overseas, others wondered whether the get-together was simply a nostalgic reunion or a business rendezvous in disguise.
“Chris Gayle hanging out with two of the most controversial figures in Indian sports-business history — what a timeline,” one user tweeted.
Another joked, “Forget Ocean’s Eleven. This is IPL’s Big Three plotting their comeback.”
No Official Statement
As of now, none of the three individuals have released an official statement or commented on the viral image. Sources close to the matter suggest the photo may have been taken at a private social event in London, where both Mallya and Modi currently reside.
A Reunion or a Statement?
While the image may just be a casual meet-up among friends, it also inadvertently stirs old memories — of glamour, scandal, and the golden yet controversial early years of the IPL. With all three men once commanding massive influence in cricket and business, their joint appearance naturally sparks speculation.
Whether the trio intended to make headlines or not, the internet has done what it does best — amplified the moment into a trending topic.
Sources:
- Times Now
- India Today
- [X trending topics – July 3, 2025]
