Double Olympic medallist Neeraj Chopra and former India captain Virat Kohli were among the sporting personalities who extended birthday wishes to Prime Minister Narendra Modi as he turned 76 on Thursday.
Chopra, India’s star javelin thrower, credited initiatives such as Khelo India and the Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS) with helping athletes and said he had witnessed positive changes in Indian sport during Modi’s tenure.
“I extend my heartfelt wishes to Prime Minister Narendra Modi on his birthday. Ever since he took over, there have been several positive changes in our country’s sports. For example, whenever we win a medal and come from somewhere, or even if someone has not won a medal, he calls everyone and talks to everyone nicely, and gives
equal respect,” Chopra said in a video message.
“Also, I would like to tell you that the Khelo India and TOPS schemes have helped our players a lot. So, I feel that, thanks to our respected Prime Minister, there will be positive changes in the future. And I wish him a long life. May he always be healthy and happy,” he added.
Kohli also took to social media to convey his birthday wishes to Modi, keeping his message brief.
“Warm birthday wishes to Honourable Prime Minister Shri @narendramodi ji. Wishing you good health, happiness, and a long fulfilling life,” Kohli wrote on X.
The messages from the two prominent Indian sportspersons came as wishes poured in for Modi from political leaders, athletes, film personalities and other public figures.
PM Modi was born on September 17, 1950, in Vadnagar, Gujarat. He became Prime Minister in May 2014 and is the longest-serving Prime Minister from a non-Congress party.
Chopra’s message also comes at a time when the Indian javelin thrower remains a prominent figure in the country’s sporting landscape. The Olympic champion won silver at the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, with Modi congratulating him for the performance.
Kohli, meanwhile, is set to return to India’s ODI setup for the three-match series against the West Indies beginning September 27, with matches scheduled in Thiruvananthapuram, Guwahati and New Chandigarh.
