Virat Kohli has once again proven his dominance, not just on the cricket field but also in the world of branding and celebrity influence. According to Fortune India’s first-ever celebrity brand value ranking, created in collaboration with Interbrand and featured in its June 2026 issue, Kohli tops the list with an astounding brand value of ₹3,542 crore. This ranking measures 25 of India’s biggest cricket and cinema stars based on brand strength, financial performance, and cultural impact.
Kohli’s position at the top underscores how athletic excellence, combined with consistent public engagement, can translate into economic power rivaling major businesses. His brand value places him ahead of Bollywood legend Shah Rukh Khan, who secured second place at ₹3,017 crore, and global icon Priyanka Chopra Jonas, who ranked third with ₹2,507 crore. Interestingly, cricketers continue to dominate the list, with four of them making it into the top 10, including stalwarts like MS Dhoni and Sachin Tendulkar.
This ranking highlights the evolving landscape of celebrity influence in India. Stars are no longer confined to their fields of performance; they are now powerful economic entities whose reach extends into advertising, endorsements, and cultural leadership. Kohli’s ability to blend his cricketing achievements with a strong personal brand has made him a household name and a trusted face for global companies. His leadership qualities, fitness-driven lifestyle, and relatability to fans have all contributed to his immense brand strength.
The inclusion of cinema stars alongside cricketers also reflects India’s dual obsession with cricket and Bollywood. While actors like Shah Rukh Khan and Priyanka Chopra Jonas continue to command global attention, the rise of cricketers in brand rankings shows how sports personalities are increasingly shaping consumer behavior and corporate strategies.
