Cricket player Virat Kohli paid tribute to his father, Prem Nath Kohli, who died in 2006 when he was still a teenager, on Father’s Day by posting a heartfelt message on social media. He shared a heartfelt message about the principles his father instilled in him on Instagram, along with a picture of the two of them as children. According to Kohli, his father taught him the value of honesty and self-belief when he once refused a shortcut that was offered to him when he was younger. “He said, ‘If you’re good enough, you’ll find your way. If not, it’s better to know that early,’” Kohli wrote. That moment, he said, shaped how he lives and approaches everything in life. He added that his father’s quiet strength continues to guide him every day.
The emotional message struck a chord with fans, as many praised Kohli for always staying grounded and remembering his roots. He described his father as someone who believed in hard work over privilege and never encouraged him to use connections to move ahead.
Anushka Sharma, his spouse, also wrote a heartfelt post. She posted pictures and a heartfelt note for Kohli and her father, the two men in her life. The note from their daughter Vamika, in which she wrote, “He is funny,” was a particular highlight. In it, she joyfully and innocently expressed her love for her father. “He tickles me. I love him so much.” Kohli has often spoken about how the number 18 holds deep meaning for him. His father passed away on December 18, and he made his India debut on August 18. These two life-changing dates have given him a sense of spiritual connection with that number.
Looking back, he said he feels fortunate when he sees fans wearing his jersey. To him, it’s a reminder of how far he has come from dreaming of wearing his heroes’ jerseys to becoming one himself. Kohli’s tribute served as a beautiful reminder of the impact a parent can have, long after they’re gone.
