New Delhi: As the whole nation stood united and exemplified solidarity by following Prime Minister Modi's '9 PM 9 Minutes Lights Off' initiative on Sunday by lighting deeps and diyas in their respective households to symbolize the elimination of darkness, Indian cricket team skipper Virat Kohli also urged the nation to 'stand together' in this fight against the novel virus.

"A prayer in unity does make a difference. Pray for every being and stand together," tweeted Kohli as he shared a wife Anushka Sharma's tweet where the two are seen lighting a diya.


The lights off move by PM Modi was the second major appeal from the Prime Minister, who had earlier urged the nation to observe 'Janta Curfew' and express their appreciation and gratitude towards healthcare workers and other basic service providers by clapping for them.

It had received an overwhelming response from the citizens, including the sportspersons.

The whole nation and world has come to a standstill amid the COVID-19 lockdown and the sporting universe has also taken a complete backseat owing to the spread of deadly pandemic. In India, the sporting events including the Indian Premier League has been suspended until April 15 although it seems unlikely to begin post the 21-day lockdown.

Overall, major sporting events lined up in the year like the Tokyo Olympics, major grand slams like the Wimbledon and French Open, Formula One Grand Prix and major leagues all around the world have all been cancelled.