The city of Bengaluru, and indeed the entire state of Karnataka, erupted in a frenzy of joy and celebration on Tuesday, June 3, 2025, as Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) secured their maiden Indian Premier League (IPL) title. After 18 long years of waiting, the Virat Kohli-led squad finally brought the trophy home, defeating Punjab Kings (PBKS) in a thrilling final held at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.
The atmosphere in Bengaluru was electric as fans gathered in large numbers to watch the match on big screens. Anticipation turned into jubilation as RCB clinched the final wicket, triggering an outpouring of emotion. People danced in the streets, waved RCB flags, and chanted "Ee sala cup namde!" (This time, the cup is ours!). Fireworks lit up the night sky, and the sounds of celebration echoed throughout the city.
Similar scenes unfolded across Karnataka. In Belagavi, sports enthusiasts gathered at Channamma Circle, bursting firecrackers and distributing sweets to celebrate the victory. Hotels and public spaces screened the match, bringing communities together to share in the historic moment. Even before the final, activists organized special prayers and sought blessings for the team, highlighting the deep connection between RCB and its fans.
For Virat Kohli, the victory was particularly emotional. Tears streamed down his face even before the final ball was bowled, a release of the pressure and expectation that had built up over his 18 years with the franchise. "I've given this team my youth, my prime, and now my experience," Kohli said in a post-match interview. "To finally have this moment arrive – it's an unbelievable feeling." He emphasized the importance of the win for the fans, the "Red Army" who had supported the team through thick and thin. Kohli, who has lifted almost every other major trophy, including World Cups and Champions Trophies, ranked this IPL victory as exceptionally special, emphasizing his loyalty and deep connection to Bengaluru. "My heart is with Bengaluru. My soul is with Bengaluru. And this is the team I'll play for until my final IPL game," he declared.
RCB's journey to the title was marked by resilience and determination. After a strong showing in the league stage, finishing second, they defeated Punjab Kings convincingly in Qualifier 1. In the final, RCB posted a total of 190/9, with Virat Kohli top-scoring with 43. The bowlers then held their nerve to restrict Punjab Kings to 184/8, securing a 6-run victory. Rajat Patidar, the captain, had emphasized before the game that the team was determined to win the title for Kohli.
The celebrations weren't confined to Bengaluru or Karnataka. Fans across the country, in cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Kolkata, joined in the jubilation. Many had performed rituals and offered prayers to ward off any negative energy, underscoring the almost spiritual connection fans feel with the team.
The Karnataka Chief Minister was even urged by a fan to declare June 3rd a public holiday and celebrate "Karnataka State RCB Fans' Festival," an indication of the significance of the win for the state.
While the Punjab Kings fell short of their own title aspirations, their performance throughout the tournament was commendable. Led by Shreyas Iyer, they displayed resilience and skill, earning the respect of fans and rivals alike.
Ultimately, the night belonged to RCB and their devoted fans. After years of heartbreak, the dream had finally come true. "Ee sala cup namde" was no longer just a chant, but a reality, etched forever in the history of the IPL and the hearts of RCB fans.
