IND vs NZ 1st ODI: Virat Kohli's bow and arrow celebration goes viral, fans link it to Ranbir Kapoor's Ramayana

Virat Kohli is once again making headlines, and this time, it is not just for his brilliant cricketing skills. During the first ODI between India and New Zealand at Eden Park in Auckland on November 4, 2026, the star cricketer grabbed everyone's attention with a stunning one-handed catch and his famous 'bow and arrow' celebration. The moment quickly went viral, with fans linking his gesture to Lord Ram and the much-awaited film Ramayana.

Stunning One-Handed Catch Steals the Show

The excitement began in the 29th over when Indian bowler Anshul Kamboj delivered a full ball outside off stump to New Zealand all-rounder Nathan Smith. Smith attempted an ambitious drive but managed only a thick outside edge. Standing at the slips, Kohli immediately dived to his right and completed an incredible one-handed catch just inches above the ground.

His athletic effort left teammates and cricket fans impressed. The catch became one of the most talked-about moments of the match, once again highlighting Kohli's sharp reflexes and commitment on the field.

Famous Bow and Arrow Celebration Goes Viral

However, it was Kohli's celebration after the catch that created even more excitement. After celebrating with his teammates, the former Indian captain performed his signature 'bow and arrow' gesture, also known as the Dhanush celebration.

Virat Kohli was promoting Ramayana during the #NZvIND match today. https://t.co/JCP0GXAbuk

— Pulkit. (@jerseyno27) November 4, 2026

The gesture, which resembles drawing a bow and preparing to shoot an arrow, immediately caught the attention of social media users. Fans began sharing clips of the moment and connecting it with Lord Ram, who is traditionally associated with the bow and arrow.

Fans Connect Virat Kohli's Gesture With Ramayana

Kohli's celebration sparked conversations online, with several fans wondering whether the gesture was a reference to Lord Ram or the upcoming film Ramayana, starring Ranbir Kapoor.

Directed by Nitesh Tiwari, the ambitious cinematic adaptation brings the Indian epic to the big screen, with Ranbir Kapoor portraying Lord Ram. The film has generated significant curiosity among audiences, particularly because of its grand scale, visual storytelling and star-studded cast.

As a result, Kohli's bow and arrow gesture became an interesting talking point for fans who connected the cricketing moment with the film. Social media users shared humorous reactions and speculated about a possible Ramayana reference.

However, there has been no official confirmation that Kohli's celebration was connected to Ranbir Kapoor's film or its promotions. The gesture remains his trademark celebration, which fans interpreted through the lens of the Ramayana connection.

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It remains his trademark celebration, which fans interpreted through the lens of the Ramayana connection.

Kohli Adds More Entertainment With a WWE Gesture

That was not the only entertaining moment from Kohli during the match. He was also spotted making the popular 'You Can't See Me' gesture towards New Zealand batter Glenn Phillips. The move is famously associated with WWE legend John Cena and added another playful moment to the on-field action.

Kohli's energetic celebrations and animated reactions once again showed why he remains one of the most entertaining personalities in international cricket.

Cricket Moment That Connected Sports and Cinema

From a breathtaking catch to a celebration inspired by the image of a legendary archer, Kohli managed to create a moment that went beyond cricket. While fans continue to discuss its possible connection with Ramayana, the celebration has certainly added to the excitement surrounding the upcoming film.

Whether it was simply Kohli enjoying another brilliant fielding moment or an unintentional reminder of Lord Ram, one thing is clear: the cricketer knows how to keep fans talking, both on and off the field.