Veteran Bollywood actor Anil Kapoor recently took a nostalgic trip down memory lane, fondly recalling a moment that remains etched in his heart — cricketer Virat Kohli’s visit to the set of Dil Dhadakne Do during its shoot. At the time, Kohli had dropped by to meet Anushka Sharma, his then-rumored girlfriend and co-star of the film. What stood out most to Anil Kapoor wasn’t just the cricketer’s star power, but his down-to-earth nature and respectful demeanor.
In an interview where Kapoor was reflecting on memorable behind-the-scenes moments from his long career, he brought up Kohli’s visit unprompted, highlighting it as one of the warmest and most genuine encounters he’s had with a public figure from outside the film industry. “We were shooting Dil Dhadakne Do on a cruise ship, and it was a very tight-knit, family-like environment,” Kapoor recalled. “Virat came to visit Anushka, and though he was already a huge name in cricket, he didn’t carry the weight of stardom with him.”
According to Kapoor, Kohli blended effortlessly with the cast and crew. “There was no fanfare, no show of superiority. He was soft-spoken, extremely polite, and you could immediately tell he had immense respect for Anushka and her work. It was clear that he wasn’t just there as a boyfriend, but as someone who admired the process and the people involved.”
Kapoor emphasized how rare it is for someone from a completely different domain — especially one as competitive and high-pressure as professional sports — to step into the film world and leave such a strong, positive impression. “I’ve met many celebrities from different fields, but Virat really stood out for his humility. He greeted everyone with genuine warmth and spent time observing the filmmaking process. He even joked with us and made everyone feel at ease.”
At that time, Virat and Anushka’s relationship was still under the radar, though speculated by fans and the media. Kapoor, known for being protective of his colleagues, praised Kohli for being discreet and respectful during his visit. “There was no show-off, no intrusion into our work. He maintained a low profile and was clearly proud of Anushka. That level of maturity — especially at a time when their relationship wasn’t even public — said a lot about his character.”
Dil Dhadakne Do, directed by Zoya Akhtar, was a big-budget ensemble film featuring stars like Priyanka Chopra, Ranveer Singh, Farhan Akhtar, and Anushka Sharma alongside Kapoor. The movie was shot in various international locations, including on a luxury cruise liner, where cast and crew often spent extended periods together — making any visitor immediately noticeable. Yet Kohli’s presence, Kapoor said, never disrupted the atmosphere.
“Sometimes it’s not about what people say, but how they carry themselves. Virat’s presence was calm, respectful, and full of positive energy. It left an impression not just on me, but on several members of the crew as well,” Kapoor added.
The actor also reflected on how beautifully Virat and Anushka’s relationship has evolved since that time. “To see where they are today — married, parents, and thriving in their respective careers — it makes those early memories even more special. I’m not surprised at all that Virat is loved not only for his game but also for the person he is.”
This sweet recollection of a simpler, more private moment between two of India’s most loved public figures — shared by one of the industry’s most respected voices — offers fans a glimpse into the values and character that often go unnoticed behind the glamour. Anil Kapoor’s words serve as a reminder that greatness is not just measured in achievements, but also in humility and grace — both of which, according to him, Virat Kohli displayed effortlessly.
As for Kapoor, he ended the anecdote with his trademark smile: “In our industry, you meet all kinds of people. But it’s the ones who are kind, grounded, and genuine — like Virat — that you never forget.”
