In a social media moment that has raised as much admiration as it has surprise, Bollywood actress and wife of Indian cricketing legend Virat Kohli, Anushka Sharma, liked a viral post celebrating the sacrifices made by army men while appearing to draw a parallel with celebrities such as actors and cricketers. The post, initially put up by user @Mahiyank_78, read, "Days like these make you realize that Army men are the real heroes, not Bollywood actors or cricketers."

The post struck a chord with many for its sentiment of paying tribute to India's military, particularly during national sorrow or calamity. The post gained some surprise publicity, though, when fans observed that Anushka Sharma liked the reel. Her outspoken support, combined with her relationship with national cricket star Virat Kohli, sparked mixed reactions across the internet.  Though some loved her salute to real-world heroes, others were confused by it, thinking that it was a veiled criticism of celebrity culture—broadly defined, including her own husband.

Virat Kohli, whose life is consistently glorified as a cricket hero and one of the world's most popular sporting personalities, receives immense adulation from fans, placing him on par with national icons. Therefore, the contrast implied in the post—and Anushka's stamp of approval—was sure to leave eyebrows furrowed.

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Bakchod Billi (@bcbilliofficial)

Also read: 'Test cricket needs Virat' - Legendary West Indian batter asks Virat Kohli to reconsider his retirement decision

Fans React: "Was That a Subtle Message or Misread?"

The post's like has now sparked a spectrum of feelings on social media. While some users appreciated Anushka's realistic outlook, others thought it was an act done in bad faith that unintentionally belittled celebrities such as Kohli, who are role models themselves. "If even family members begin supporting such posts, what will fans take away from it?" one user asked.

Some fans argued it was likely an innocent acknowledgment of the armed forces rather than a targeted message against cricketers. Still, the timing—coinciding with Kohli’s rumored consideration of Test retirement—only intensified speculations. Anushka, known for her straightforward views, has not responded to the reactions yet.

While the debate continues, one thing is certain: in the social media era, even a single like can say a thousand words and trigger national debates.