For over a decade and a half, Virat Kohli has lived a life that only a few can imagine and even fewer can endure. Constant flights, packed stadiums, endless expectations, and the relentless rhythm of international cricket defined his days. Yet, amid all the milestones, trophies, and records, what often went missing was something deeply personal — uninterrupted time with his loved ones. Now, after taking a step back from the exhausting grind, Kohli is finally relishing moments of calm, gratitude, and togetherness. “Some quality quality time with kids, family — which I haven’t done much for many years — it has been a beautiful beautiful time & phase which I cherish,” Kohli said, capturing the essence of this new chapter in his life.
The statement offers a rare and heartfelt glimpse into the emotional world of a cricketer who has been at the epicenter of Indian cricket since his debut. For years, Kohli’s name has been synonymous with passion, intensity, and ambition. From captaining India across formats to leading Royal Challengers Bangalore with unwavering spirit, he has carried immense responsibility both on and off the field. But such dedication often comes at a cost, and Kohli’s words reflect a realization that balance is just as important as success.
This phase of rediscovery for Kohli seems to coincide with his decision to scale back his cricketing commitments. Having already announced his retirement from T20 internationals after India’s triumphant T20 World Cup campaign earlier this year, Kohli now focuses only on Test and ODI cricket. The decision, as he has often implied, was not born out of fatigue alone but also a yearning to live life beyond the boundaries. For a man who has spent his youth under the microscope, constantly scrutinized for every move, the joy of a simple family breakfast or a quiet evening at home must feel like a luxury.
It is also worth remembering that Kohli became a father during one of the most intense phases of his career. His daughter, Vamika, was born in 2021, during India’s tour of Australia — a series remembered for its drama, grit, and eventual glory. Since then, Kohli has spoken sparingly about fatherhood, choosing to protect his family’s privacy, yet every glimpse he offers shows how profoundly the experience has changed him. His recent words confirm that this period away from the daily rush of cricket has been a healing and grounding one, helping him reconnect with the simple joys that fame and pressure had often taken away.
Fans, too, have reacted warmly to Kohli’s reflection. Social media has been filled with admiration and support for the cricketer, with many calling it a well-deserved pause after years of service to Indian cricket. His ability to open up about emotional aspects of his life has often set him apart from the traditional image of athletes, reminding the world that even icons need moments of stillness.
As Kohli prepares for the next phase of his cricketing journey, his words serve as a quiet reminder that success isn’t always measured in runs or records. Sometimes, it’s found in laughter shared at home, the presence of loved ones, and the peace that comes from simply living. For Virat Kohli, this “beautiful beautiful time” is not a break — it’s a reward.