Virat Kohli says one8’s success lies beyond its founders

MUMBAI: Leaving a legacy, it seems, is not on Virat Kohli’s scoreboard. Building something that lasts is. Indian cricketer Virat Kohli has said the true measure of a brand’s success is its ability to outgrow the people who created it, underlining that personal recognition should never be the ultimate goal. Speaking at the launch of the latest phase of his lifestyle brand one8, Kohli said he would consider the venture successful only if it eventually becomes bigger than its founders and continues to thrive independently for years to come.

“Nobody gives two hoots about who we are who started this honestly! I think I would love to be forgotten completely for this to take over,” Kohli remarked, outlining his long-term vision for the brand.

The former India captain said he is not focused on personal credit or legacy, adding that he would be happy to fade into the background if the business continues to grow and remain relevant on its own merit.

According to Kohli, enduring brands are built on purpose, consistency and long-term thinking rather than the need for validation. He noted that the objective is to create something capable of sustaining itself across decades, irrespective of who first set it in motion.

The comments come as one8 continues to expand its footprint across multiple consumer categories, including fashion, footwear, fitness and hospitality. Kohli has steadily positioned the venture as a broader lifestyle brand rather than a conventional celebrity-backed label.

At the launch event, he reiterated that the focus remains firmly on scale, relevance and longevity, rather than personality-led storytelling. The latest phase of one8 marks another step in that journey as the brand seeks to deepen its presence in India’s growing consumer lifestyle market.

For Kohli, the ultimate win may not be having his name attached to the brand forever, but creating something strong enough to stand long after the spotlight moves elsewhere.