Celebrations sweep Bengaluru as IPL champions RCB arrive with trophy in hand

Jubilant scenes unfolded in Bengaluru on Wednesday afternoon as the newly-crowned IPL champions, Royal Challengers Bengaluru, returned to a hero’s welcome in the Garden City. Fans lined the streets in large numbers, braving the weather to greet their beloved team with deafening cheers and unbridled enthusiasm.

The victorious squad, fresh from their historic six-run triumph over Punjab Kings in Tuesday’s final at Ahmedabad, was en route to meet Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah at the Vidhana Soudha. As the team made their way through the city, roadsides turned into spontaneous celebration zones, with supporters waving flags, chanting slogans, and capturing the moment on their phones.

The triumph marked RCB’s maiden IPL title in 18 seasons, a moment fans had long dreamed of. The city, draped in red and gold, erupted in celebration as the players touched down, carrying with them the pride of an entire fanbase that had waited nearly two decades for glory.

Following their courtesy visit to the Chief Minister’s office, the team is scheduled to proceed to the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium for a special fan interaction and felicitation event, aimed at acknowledging the unwavering support of the RCB faithful.

The champions have left Ahmedabad and are heading back to their DEN with the trophy! 🏆🏟️

18 years later, dreams finally became reality for #RCB because #DreamsDontRetire. ♥️

Watch #KingKohli and #RCB celebrate their first IPL title with their fans in Bengaluru – including a… pic.twitter.com/1blfbn6KGG

— Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) June 4, 2025

#WATCH | Bengaluru: Fans of #RoyalChallengersBengaluru gather in large numbers outside Vidhana Soudha to catch a glimpse of their champion team #RoyalChallengersBengaluru team will arrive at Vidhana Soudha, where they will be felicitated by the Karnataka government… pic.twitter.com/axXtpvIU1m

— ANI (@ANI) June 4, 2025

#WATCH | Bengaluru: Fans of #RoyalChallengersBengaluru gather in large numbers outside Vidhana Soudha to catch a glimpse of their champion team #RoyalChallengersBengaluru team will arrive at Vidhana Soudha, where they will be felicitated by the Karnataka government… pic.twitter.com/l2wdpr3nwb

— ANI (@ANI) June 4, 2025

#WATCH | Bengaluru: Fans of #RoyalChallengersBengaluru gather in large numbers outside Vidhana Soudha to catch a glimpse of their champion team #RoyalChallengersBengaluru team will arrive at Vidhana Soudha, where they will be felicitated by the Karnataka government… pic.twitter.com/sFKQqzYOV3

— ANI (@ANI) June 4, 2025

Initially, a grand open-top bus parade was planned to transport the players from Vidhana Soudha to the stadium, allowing fans a chance to cheer the champions in a full-fledged victory procession. The event was to be a visual spectacle, symbolising the culmination of years of dedication and hope.

#WATCH | Karnataka: Amid loud cheers by its fans, #IPL2025 champions, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) arrives in Bengaluru. pic.twitter.com/PHjiO3ntkN

— ANI (@ANI) June 4, 2025

However, that plan now hangs in the balance. The Bengaluru Traffic Police announced via social media that the parade may not proceed due to anticipated traffic congestion in the central parts of the city. The sheer volume of footfall and vehicular movement after last night’s celebrations already posed significant challenges to law enforcement and city infrastructure.

The inclement weather, marked by sporadic rains throughout the day, has further complicated the logistics, prompting authorities to reconsider the feasibility of a street-side celebration.

Despite the setback, not all hope is lost. Sources indicate that the parade could still go ahead if Chief Minister Siddaramaiah grants special permission. Interestingly, the open-top bus designated for the victory march remains stationed near the CM’s office, signaling that the decision is yet to be finalized.

As fans await confirmation, the excitement remains palpable. Whether or not the parade materialises, one thing is certain, Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s long-awaited triumph has ignited the city, and the celebrations, in one form or another, are far from over.

This article first appeared on Mid Day