From Pennies to Stardom: Virat Kohli’s Food-Saving Days Shock Fans

Virat Kohli, a global cricket icon, once saved every penny of his pocket money to afford meals, a revelation shared by former teammate Sarandeep Singh on a podcast aired on 18 May 2025. Growing up in Delhi’s Uttam Nagar, Kohli faced financial struggles that shaped his relentless drive. This glimpse into his humble beginnings has stunned fans, highlighting the sacrifices behind his journey from a scrappy teenager to a cricketing legend with a net worth exceeding Rs. 1,000 crore.

A Teenager’s Struggle
In the early 2000s, Kohli, then a budding cricketer, trained at the West Delhi Cricket Academy under coach Rajkumar Sharma. With his family facing modest means—his father a lawyer and mother a homemaker—Kohli relied on limited pocket money. Sarandeep recalled how the young Kohli meticulously budgeted every rupee to buy food, often skipping extras to ensure he could eat after grueling practice sessions. This discipline, born of necessity, fueled his focus on cricket, even as he juggled school and training.

Early Signs of Grit
Kohli’s penny-pinching days reflected his determination. Despite financial constraints, he never compromised on his cricketing aspirations, traveling across Delhi for matches and trials. His talent shone early, earning him a spot in Delhi’s Under-14 team at 13. Sarandeep noted Kohli’s frugality extended to sharing meals with teammates, masking his struggles with a fierce competitive spirit. These hardships instilled a work ethic that later defined his aggressive batting and leadership.

Rise to Cricketing Glory
Kohli’s sacrifices paid off when he debuted for India in 2008, leading the Under-19 World Cup team to victory. His ascent continued, with over 14,000 ODI runs and 54 centuries by 2025, making him one of cricket’s greatest. Off-field, endorsements with brands like Puma and Audi, plus ventures like One8, built his empire. Yet, 
his food-saving days remain a testament to his resilience, inspiring millions.

A Lasting Inspiration
The revelation has sparked admiration on social media, with fans calling Kohli’s journey “unbelievable.” Posts on X praise his humility, noting how his struggles resonate with aspiring athletes. Kohli’s story underscores that stardom is forged through sacrifice, reinforcing his image as a role model. As he continues to dominate cricket, his past reminds fans that even legends start small, driven by hunger—both literal and figurative.