Indian batting legend Virat Kohli turned 38 on Thursday, and given the fan following he enjoys, the day was nothing but a festival among his ultras. Birthday wishes and tributes started pouring in for
the former skipper right from Wednesday, when he hit his 80th ODI fifty, and came up with a 51-ball 74 as India recorded a five-wicket win in a rain-curtailed game.
However, on Thursday, among his millions of well-wishers, Kohli received a heartfelt message from elder sister, Bhawna Kohli Dhingra. She posted a childhood picture of the two on social media, and wrote, “Happiest birthday, Veere. The little hands have grown, so has the heart! Your pure soul keeps you humble, and that makes me so proud of you.”
Bhawna shared her wishes over Instagram story but its screenshots quickly went viral among fans on social media.
Keep singing your tune!: Former India head coach Ravi Shastri’s energetic birthday wish for ‘Champ’ Kohli
Many happy returns of the day, Champ! 🎂
A proper exhibition in the closing hours of Year 37. Keep singing your tune!
I am 38 going on 36. Oh la la! Ohhhh… 🎶😎 @imVkohli https://t.co/cRbW8sfvRY— Ravi Shastri (@RaviShastriOfc) November 4, 2026
Ravi Shastri, one of the most energetic broadcasters and commentators, shared an early wish for Kohli. The two have been sharing a great bond from their days of respective tenures at India’s helm. Despite both having moved on from their positions, the bond continues to remain the same and Shastri’s latest wish is a testament to it. On X, he wrote, “Many happy returns of the day, Champ! A proper exhibition in the closing hours of Year 37. Keep singing your tune! I am 38 going on 36. Oh la la! Ohhhh…”
Apart from him, former India batter Suresh Raina also shared his wishes for Kohli, while referring to him as the ‘King’. “Happy Birthday, King Kohli! From breathtaking cover drives to unforgettable run chases, you’ve given cricket fans countless memories and emotions. Your passion, fighting spirit and hunger to win make you truly special. For me, watching you bat is pure joy. Keep inspiring, keep conquering and keep making India proud! Once a King, Always a King!” Raina posted on X.
