Virat Kohli’s 36th birthday on November 5, 2024, saw an outpouring of love and admiration from fans, teammates, former players, and global icons. Known for his immense influence in the cricketing world, Kohli received heartfelt wishes from across sports and entertainment industries, celebrating his phenomenal career and indomitable spirit.
One of the most talked-about tributes came from former football star David Beckham, who reminisced about Kohli’s unforgettable century at the ICC World Cup 2023 semi-final at Mumbai’s Wankhede Stadium. Beckham, who attended the match and witnessed Kohli’s powerful performance, shared a throwback picture with a message highlighting Kohli’s dedication and brilliance. Beckham’s words resonated with fans, underscoring the global respect and admiration Kohli commands not only in cricket but across sports.
In the cricket world, Kohli’s former teammate and close friend AB de Villiers shared a warm birthday message, calling him his “brother from another mother.” Their friendship, strengthened over years at Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), remains one of the most cherished bonds in cricket. De Villiers’ tribute celebrated Kohli’s unmatched passion for the game and their memorable partnerships on the field, a sentiment that moved fans of both players. Dinesh Karthik also extended a heartfelt wish, emphasizing Kohli’s unwavering commitment to excellence, which has inspired millions.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) posted a special message acknowledging Kohli’s contributions to Indian cricket and his ability to inspire the next generation of players. Fellow Indian players, including Hardik Pandya and Shubman Gill, joined the celebrations, highlighting Kohli’s role as a mentor and his guidance in shaping their careers. On social media, Indian cricket clubs and franchises like Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) posted tributes celebrating “King Kohli” and his relentless pursuit of excellence, calling him a “cricketing genius” and a “true inspiration.” Fans quickly picked up on these posts, making “#HappyBirthdayKingKohli” trend as they shared memories of his iconic innings and milestones.
In an unexpected but heartfelt tribute, sand artist Sudarsan Pattnaik crafted an intricate sand sculpture of Kohli on Puri Beach in Odisha, celebrating his legacy with an art piece that drew fans to admire the unique tribute. This creative homage reflected the national pride that Kohli’s career has inspired, with Pattnaik expressing admiration for Kohli’s achievements and his contributions to Indian cricket on and off the field.
Prominent figures outside of cricket, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, also shared celebratory messages, honoring Kohli’s journey from a young prodigy to an international cricketing icon. Modi’s message praised Kohli’s dedication and passion, noting how his journey and success embody the aspirations of millions of young Indians. Meanwhile, West Bengal’s Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee expressed pride that Kohli’s birthday coincided with his stay in Kolkata for an upcoming ODI match, expressing hope for his continued success and happiness.
Kohli’s fans, fondly known as the “Viratians,” organized several online events and fan gatherings to celebrate his birthday. Social media was abuzz with clips of Kohli’s most iconic moments, from his fearless chases to his unmatched consistency in high-pressure situations. Fans shared stories of how Kohli’s determination and discipline have inspired them, while some even created videos showcasing his most memorable innings, records, and emotional moments on the field.
Looking back on Kohli’s career, many fans and analysts reflected on his transformation from a fiery young cricketer to a seasoned leader who elevated Indian cricket to new heights. Known for his aggressive playing style, Kohli brought a level of intensity and commitment that has become a hallmark of Indian cricket. His impact as captain, particularly his emphasis on fitness and discipline, has set a new standard for Indian players and inspired a generation to prioritize health and hard work.
Kohli’s 36th birthday also brings an anticipation of his performance in the upcoming matches. Currently in Kolkata for the ODI World Cup, Kohli’s preparation for his next game reflects his enduring focus and commitment. With India poised for a potential top position in the tournament, fans hope that Kohli’s birthday will mark a fresh chapter in his career, where he continues to break records and lead his team to new heights.
This year’s celebrations emphasize that Kohli’s legacy goes beyond his statistics and records; his dedication, leadership, and passion have made him a symbol of excellence and resilience. As he enters another year, Kohli’s influence on Indian cricket remains unmatched, inspiring both fans and future cricketers. The outpouring of birthday wishes serves as a testament to his journey and the indelible mark he has left on the game. Fans and fellow athletes alike hope to witness many more milestones in Kohli’s career, celebrating the brilliance of a player who continues to redefine the art of cricket with every match.