Bengaluru: Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s dream run to their first-ever IPL title was set to culminate in a grand roadshow — but last-minute security concerns put the brakes on the celebration. Bengaluru Police denied permission for the planned victory rally, citing the risk of untoward incidents, and confined the festivities to the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium.
RCB had planned an open-top vehicle parade from Vidhana Soudha to the stadium, aiming to celebrate their historic win with thousands of fans lining the streets. However, with massive crowds expected and two tragic incidents already reported during local celebrations, authorities stepped in to cancel the rally.
Traffic restrictions were imposed in areas surrounding Vidhana Soudha and the stadium from 3 PM, while the team will now host a victory bash inside Chinnaswamy Stadium from 6 PM to 9 PM, featuring live performances and player appearances.
The decision follows a sobering note: two RCB fans died in separate celebratory events. In Belagavi, 25-year-old Manjunath Kumbhakar suffered a fatal heart attack during a rally, while in Shivamogga, 21-year-old Abhinandan died on the spot following a bike crash during a victory procession.
RCB’s triumph after 18 years of waiting ignited statewide celebrations, with euphoric fans pouring into streets late into the night. In some areas, police had to intervene with lathi charges to maintain order.
While the roadshow may have been cancelled, the spirit of celebration continues inside RCB’s fortress — Chinnaswamy Stadium.
