Sounds of jubilation and celebratory slogans reverberated across Bengaluru late on Tuesday night as Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) lifted their maiden Indian Premier League (IPL) trophy, putting an end to an 18-year-long pursuit of the coveted silverware.
Supporters took to the streets across the city, igniting firecrackers and chanting the now-iconic slogan ‘Ee Sala Cup Namde’ — Kannada for ‘This time, the cup is ours’ — in celebration of the team’s six-run triumph over Punjab Kings in the final held in Ahmedabad.
The euphoric win, which saw RCB crowned champions after finishing as runners-up on three previous occasions, prompted a rare moment of political unity. Leaders from across the political spectrum took to social media to express their delight and extend congratulations to the team.
"Congratulations to Royal Challengers Bengaluru on a historic IPL triumph. The dream has finally come true – Ee Sala Cup Namde!" Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah wrote on X. He further stated, "From electrifying performances to unshakable spirit, this triumph has ignited the pride of Karnataka and thrilled fans across the world."
Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar described the occasion as emotionally significant for fans. "This is more than a win – it’s an emotional moment for the entire RCB Army," he posted on X. "Ee Sala Cup Namde! Huge congratulations to RCB on this unforgettable, historic victory in the IPL Finals. 18 years of passion, loyalty, and never giving up – and tonight, it all came together!"
Also read: Virat Kohli, RCB win maiden IPL title, break 18-year jinx
BJP MP Tejasvi Surya and Congress leader Shashi Tharoor, currently part of a multi-party Indian delegation in Washington DC, were among the many who celebrated Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s maiden IPL title—albeit from across the globe.
Soon after landing in the United States capital, the two parliamentarians shared a video on X, cheering for RCB and calling the team’s victory a long-awaited and joyous moment.
“We were on the flight when news of RCB’s win came through, but the first thing we checked after landing was this,” Mr Surya said in the clip.
Standing beside him, Congress MP Shashi Tharoor, a vocal cricket enthusiast, smiled as Mr Surya added, “I am with Shashi Tharoor, who is also an RCB supporter.”
Union Minister and JD(S) leader H D Kumaraswamy said he was proud of the team’s historic achievement and paid tribute to the loyal fan base. "This win also belongs to every RCB fan who never gave up," he said. "What a moment for Bengaluru, Karnataka and cricket lovers across the nation! RCB emerges victorious – a testament to grit, belief, and the spirit of Karnataka."
BJP state president B Y Vijayendra lauded the perseverance of RCB fans and the team’s resilient journey. "This win is personal for every fan who stood by RCB through the ups and downs, who believed, cheered, and never gave up," he wrote. "What a stellar end to a stellar campaign by RCB. It took us 18 years to reach here, but we made it and that’s what truly matters… Here’s to the spirit of Play Bold and the RCB family, this is just the beginning!"
Leader of Opposition in the Karnataka Legislative Assembly, R Ashoka, echoed the sentiment, calling the victory a culmination of years of hope and hardship. "18 years of hope, heartbreak & hustle — the dream is finally real! Congratulations RCB! Champions at last!"
Even Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot extended his felicitations. "Heartiest congratulations to the players, coaches, and loyal fans. Wishing RCB continued success in the journey ahead," he said.
As the city continued to bask in the glow of a long-awaited triumph, the red and gold of RCB painted the streets of Bengaluru, a visual ode to a team whose perseverance had finally borne fruit.
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