5 reasons why Virat Kohli deserves the Bharat Ratna

Instituted in 1954, the Bharat Ratna is India’s highest civilian honor, recognizing exceptional contributions across various spheres without bias toward race, occupation, position, or gender. Previously, the award’s scope primarily embraced a set group of individuals until 2011 when the criterion broadened to encompass “any field of human endeavor,” marking the inclusion of sports personalities. In a landmark moment in November 2013, cricket maestro Sachin Tendulkar was awarded the prestigious honor, setting a precedent in the world of sports.

The spotlight shifts to another cricket legend, Virat Kohli, whose extraordinary feats and record-breaking performances have sparked discussions about his nomination for the highest honour. Notably, the Bharat Ratna nominations are at the discretion of the Prime Minister, who presents recommendations directly to the President. The award, upon conferment, bestows a certificate signed by the President and a medallion, symbolizing the highest form of recognition for exceptional service or performance. While the Bharat Ratna doesn’t entail any monetary grant, its significance lies in acknowledging unparalleled excellence in various fields.

1. Unparalleled Cricketing Career

In the realm of cricketing feats, Virat Kohli stands as a maestro of individual prowess woven into collective triumph. His 50 ODI centuries in 279 innings against Tendulkar’s 452 depict unparalleled excellence. The 50th century, a masterpiece eclipsing even the brilliance of Tendulkar, AB de Villiers, or Viv Richards, earned a standing ovation from a crowd enraptured in awe. Tendulkar, amongst the admirers, seemed almost jubilant for Kohli’s triumph.

On November 15, Kohli ascended to a solitary peak, surpassing Tendulkar’s milestone with Harsha Bhogle echoing in the commentary box, “Say it gently, Fifty one-day international hundreds!” This staggering achievement embellishes his name in cricket’s golden leaflet, setting him apart in a game originating from English county cricket and flourishing under Kerry Packer’s commercial vision. It is a testament to Kohli’s artistry and glory with team success, which that leaves an indelible mark.

2. Impact and Influence

Should India claim victory in the World Cup, Ahmedabad might witness a momentous hoist, with Kohli at its pinnacle. In the 12-year interval since the 2011 triumph, Kohli’s ascent has elevated him to a stature few achieve in the sport. Beyond borders, he embodies an icon for Indian cricket; domestically, he symbolizes the epitome of excellence.

Kohli’s relentless pursuit of greatness finds its epitome in his unwavering commitment to fitness, an ambition hailed as visionary by Basu Shanker, head strength-and-conditioning coach for Kohli’s IPL and the Indian team. Shanker lauds Kohli’s pioneering approach, likening his preparation to that of an Olympic athlete, an evolutionary game-changer in Indian Cricket and budding cricketers.

The reverberations of Kohli’s influence extend beyond cricket’s boundaries. LA Games Sports Director, Niccolo Campriani, credits the “Kohli factor” for igniting fervor around cricket’s inclusion in the Olympics. Comparing Kohli’s following to a constellation of sports legends, Campriani highlights his unparalleled sway, surpassing the combined influence of LeBron James, Tom Brady, and Tiger Woods.

3. Contribution to Indian Sports and Culture

Virat Kohli stands tall as the face of the Indian cricket team, a relentless record-breaker and adept leader propelling India to the pinnacle of ICC rankings. Yet, his ambitions extend far beyond cricket’s boundaries. Kohli’s vision transcends individual success, yearning to transform India into a sporting powerhouse.

His pursuits diversify as a stakeholder in FC Goa, a prominent football club in the Indian Super League, a venture he embarked upon at the tender age of 25. Additionally, he holds interests in the UAE Royals, a Dubai-based tennis team, and the Bengaluru Yodhas, a pro wrestling league team rooted in Bangalore. Kohli’s fervor for nurturing a robust sports culture in India propels his multifaceted investments across diverse sporting realms, embodying his unwavering commitment to broadening the nation’s athletic horizons. 

“My ultimate aim in life, in general, is to have a sporting culture in India where people know each and every sport inside out; to be able to follow all sports equally. I am certainly excited about the fact that we are at a juncture where we have a chance to create that in the next 10-15 years and we foresee Goa as the hub where footballers feel, ‘if I want to become a high-class footballer in India, I need to go there and train,” Kohli had said in an interview.

4. Humanitarian Work

Virat Kohli’s drive for a better India transcends sports, extending to uplifting underprivileged youth through the Virat Kohli Foundation. Committed to providing resources and support services, his vision connects children with opportunities while addressing societal vulnerabilities. He also has an old age home in Bangalore where disowned aged civilians are taken care of with utmost care.

Beyond sports and youth, Kohli and Anushka Sharma share a fervent passion for animal welfare. Their personal contributions and support for organizations like Awaaz Foundation reflect a dedication to aiding stray animals, offering essential medical services, shelter, and sustenance for the neglected and abused.

Amid India’s harrowing second wave of COVID-19, the power couple spearheaded the #InThisTogether campaign, rallying support and raising 11 crores. Recognizing the nation’s healthcare distress, their pledge to make a difference showcased their understanding of collective action’s significance. Kohli and Sharma’s call to the public echoed the urgent need for unified efforts to aid those affected, exemplifying their unwavering commitment to societal betterment.

5. Role Model and National Pride

Envision a 10-year-old engrossed in the iconic India vs Pakistan T20 World Cup 2022 clash at MCG. Amidst dwindling odds, Kohli’s game-changing straight six off Haris Rauf prompts Harsha Bhogle’s legendary call: “Kohli goes down the ground… Kohli goes out of the ground”—the very stuff of Indian youngsters’ aspirations.

Kohli’s gameplay exudes an enthralling, almost unbridled passion. With eyes ablaze, he bears the weight of a nation, his unrelenting drive dragging teammates and fans along. Rakesh Patel, Bharat Army’s visionary, credits Kohli for sculpting a “new India,” embodying a fervor and responsibility that resonates deeply. Kohli’s electric presence encapsulates the dreams of a generation, etching moments of heroism that inspire aspirations and elevate hope.

“It is more than him as an individual, but what he has managed to bring as a collective to a squad of players – a belief, a sense of pride, a tremendous patriotism. He really does take a lot of pride in his country and the fact that he represents them. I don’t think players in the past were as vocal in the way they expressed the emotion attached to their country,” said Patel.

Patriotism naturally intertwines with international athletes, especially those leading globally adored teams. Kohli’s influence extends beyond the field -his haircut sparks trends, and where tattoos were scarce among Indian cricketers, he blazed the trail, prompting a shift in tradition. His impact resonates, shaping not just the game but also the cultural nuances within the nation.