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.