Virat Kohli, the charismatic Indian cricketer, is not just a name associated with numerous records and achievements in the game of cricket. He has transcended the boundaries of the sport to become a true winner in various aspects of life. This article explores Kohli’s exceptional record in cricket, his philanthropic endeavours, and his remarkable efforts in raising funds during the challenging period of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Virat Kohli’s Cricketing Achievements
Before exploring his philanthropic activities, it is essential to highlight Virat Kohli’s exceptional cricket records. Born on November 5, 1988, in Delhi, India, Kohli rose to prominence as a gifted talent in the world of cricket. He made his international debut in 2008 and swiftly established himself as one of the finest batsmen of his generation.
Kohli’s records are staggering. He is the fastest player to reach 8,000, 9,000, 10,000, 11,000, and 12,000 runs in One Day Internationals (ODIs), breaking numerous records set by legendary cricketers. Furthermore, he holds the record for the fastest century in ODIs, achieving the feat in just 52 balls. Kohli’s consistency and hunger for runs have earned him countless awards, including multiple ICC awards for Cricketer of the Year. He also holds the remarkable record of achieving the highest ICC rating points (922) in the ICC Player Rankings for Test Batsmen, solidifying his position as an unmatched performer in the game.
However, what sets Virat Kohli apart is not just his cricket skills but also his ability to make a positive impact outside the cricket arena. Kohli has earned numerous prestigious accolades in India, such as the Arjuna Award, Padma Shri, and Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna, highlighting his exceptional achievements beyond cricket.
The Philanthropic Side
What sets Kohli apart is his deep commitment to making a positive impact off the field. He has embraced philanthropy with immense passion, focusing on causes close to his heart. Kohli and his wife, Anushka Sharma, have been actively involved in various charitable endeavours. They established the Virat Kohli Foundation (VKF), which aims to provide support and opportunities to underprivileged children.
The #InThisTogether Campaign
In times of crisis, true leaders emerge, and Virat Kohli demonstrated his leadership by stepping up during the COVID-19 pandemic. Recognising the immense challenges faced by the nation, Kohli utilised the crowdfunding platform Ketto to raise funds for COVID-19 relief efforts. Through his partnership with Ketto, Kohli aimed to provide vital resources, healthcare facilities, and support to those affected by the pandemic.
During the devastating second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic in India, Virat Kohli and his wife, Anushka Sharma, initiated the #InThisTogether campaign which raised a total amount of ₹ 11,36,15,408. Witnessing the distressing state of the nation and its healthcare system, they pledged to make a difference and assist those in need. Understanding the magnitude of the crisis, Kohli and Sharma recognised the importance of collective efforts and called upon the public to support their cause.
Kohli’s initiative on Ketto received significant attention and support from fans, celebrities, and individuals across the globe. His campaign received overwhelming contributions, reflecting the trust and admiration people hold for him. The funds raised through this initiative were utilised for procuring oxygen concentrators, ventilators, and other essential medical equipment, as well as supporting healthcare workers and marginalised communities affected by the pandemic.
By leveraging his massive fan following and social media influence, Kohli encouraged his followers and fellow athletes to contribute to the cause. His proactive approach and commitment to making a difference set a commendable example for others to follow.
The funds raised through the #InThisTogether campaign were directed to ACT Grants, an organisation dedicated to addressing the immediate shortage of oxygen supply in India. ACT Grants swiftly responded to the crisis, focusing on deploying oxygen solutions such as concentrators and oxygen plants to hospitals across the nation. They also aimed to bolster medical manpower, enhance home care facilities, and contribute to scaling India’s vaccination efforts.
By actively participating in this campaign, Virat Kohli proved that his commitment to serving society extended beyond his achievements on the cricket field. He exemplified the qualities of empathy, leadership, and social responsibility, inspiring others to join the movement and contribute to saving lives.
Beyond the Fundraising
Kohli’s efforts extended beyond monetary contributions. He utilised his platform to spread awareness about COVID-19 safety measures, amplifying messages related to social distancing, wearing masks, and getting vaccinated. Kohli consistently urged his fans and followers to take the necessary precautions to protect themselves and others.
Taking everything into account
Virat Kohli’s impact extends far beyond his remarkable cricketing career. Through his philanthropic endeavours, such as the #InThisTogether campaign, he has demonstrated that he is not just a winner on the cricket field but also a winner in the game of life. Kohli’s dedication to making a difference during the challenging times of the COVID-19 pandemic serves as an inspiration to all. As India and its people face the hardships brought about by the pandemic, it is individuals like Kohli who provide hope, unity, and the belief that together, we can overcome any adversity. Let us celebrate Virat Kohli’s accomplishments, both as a cricketer and as a compassionate human being, and strive to follow in his footsteps in making a positive impact in our communities.
Do You Want to Make a Difference Too?
Is There a Cause You Want to Support?
Ketto is an online crowdfunding platform that allows people to raise money for social, charity, movie, music, personal, and creative causes. Since its founding in 2012, Ketto has helped people raise over $40 million. The platform is easy to use and provides a variety of tools to help people reach their fundraising goals. Start your crowdfunding campaign today and let the compassionate community on Ketto rally behind you.