An Awkward First Impression
The setting was a 2013 television commercial for a shampoo brand. Virat Kohli, then a rapidly rising star in Indian cricket, was admittedly nervous to be sharing a screen with established Bollywood actor Anushka Sharma. In an attempt to break the ice,
he made an awkward joke about her heels, asking if she couldn't find a taller pair. The joke fell flat, and Kohli felt like he had completely messed up. However, as the shoot progressed, they discovered a surprising connection, bonding over their shared middle-class backgrounds and experiences. That initial, awkward spark of conversation was the unlikely start of everything.
From Friendship to a Public Romance
After the ad shoot, the two stayed in touch and a friendship blossomed into a romance. Soon, they were spotted together more frequently. In early 2014, Kohli was seen heading straight to Sharma's Mumbai residence after returning from a cricket tour in South Africa, fuelling media speculation. Their relationship became an open secret, and they were first pictured publicly as a couple at an Indian Super League football match in November 2014. One of the most iconic moments came when Kohli, after hitting a milestone run during a match against Sri Lanka, blew a kiss towards the stands where Sharma was seated. She responded with a standing ovation, and their public display of affection confirmed what many already suspected.
Standing Strong Through Scrutiny
Their high-profile relationship also attracted intense public scrutiny. Sharma was often unfairly blamed by trolls for Kohli's on-field performance. After a period of particularly harsh criticism in 2016, Kohli took to social media to defend her. He posted a powerful message with the word 'SHAME,' calling out the trolls and stating that Sharma had "only ever given me positivity." The post went viral, becoming the most influential tweet in India that year, and was seen as a testament to his unwavering support for her, even during a brief period when they had reportedly separated. The couple reconciled later that year, appearing together at a wedding and proving their bond was stronger than the public pressure.
A Fairy-Tale Tuscan Wedding
In December 2017, the couple surprised the nation by getting married in an intimate, secret ceremony in Tuscany, Italy. They tied the knot at Borgo Finocchieto, a restored 800-year-old village turned luxury resort, with only close family and friends in attendance. Photos of the wedding, with Sharma in a pale pink Sabyasachi lehenga and Kohli in a matching ivory sherwani, captivated their fans and set wedding goals for a generation. The secrecy and stunning destination made the event feel like a true fairy tale, away from the glare of the media. They later hosted grand receptions in Delhi and Mumbai for their wider circle of friends and colleagues.
Building a Life and Family
Since their marriage, 'Virushka,' as they are affectionately called, have grown into a formidable partnership. They continue to support each other's careers, with Sharma often seen in the stands at matches and Kohli praising her work as an actor and producer. In January 2021, they welcomed their first child, a daughter named Vamika. Their family grew again in February 2024 with the birth of their son, Akaay. The couple has been protective of their children's privacy, requesting that the media refrain from publishing their photos. They balance their professional lives with a focus on family, often sharing glimpses of their life together that showcase a deep sense of partnership and mutual respect.
