The long, agonizing wait is over. After 18 seasons of heartbreak, close calls, and unwavering loyalty, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) have finally etched their name in IPL history—clinching their maiden title with a thrilling six-run victory over Punjab Kings in the IPL 2025 final at the Narendra Modi Stadium.
Among the first to join the chorus of celebrations was Vijay Mallya, the franchise’s original owner, whose emotional post on social media captured the sentiment of millions.
“RCB are IPL Champions finally after 18 years,” Mallya wrote on X (formerly Twitter). “Superb campaign right through the 2025 tournament. A well-balanced team Playing Bold with outstanding coaching and support staff. Many congratulations! Ee Sala Cup Namde!!”
A Moment Beyond Rivalries
The significance of RCB’s victory transcended franchise lines. Messages of congratulations poured in from across the IPL spectrum, transforming fierce rivalries into shared joy.
Mumbai Indians: “Congratulations to the NEW #TATAIPL Champions, @RCBTweets. A strong & memorable campaign.”
Sunrisers Hyderabad: “Congratulations on an outstanding season and a well-earned title.”
Chennai Super Kings, despite the fierce Southern derby history: “Congratulations, @RCBTweets! #WhistlePodu.”
Kolkata Knight Riders perhaps said it best: “EE SALA CUP NIMDE, CONGRATULATIONS.”
Even Delhi Capitals, Rajasthan Royals, and Lucknow Super Giants joined in, flooding social platforms with memes, tributes, and heartfelt acknowledgments of RCB’s resilience.
Kohli’s Tears: The Image of Loyalty Rewarded
As the final ball was bowled and victory confirmed, Virat Kohli—the face of RCB for nearly two decades—dropped to his knees in a moment of cathartic release. Tears rolled down his cheeks as he embraced teammates, visibly overwhelmed by the culmination of years of unfulfilled dreams.
“I’ve given this franchise everything—my youth, my prime, my soul,” Kohli had said earlier. “To finally lift this trophy… it’s something I’ll never forget.”
Kohli’s knock of 43 off 35 balls anchored the innings after early wickets fell. His partnership with Mayank Agarwal laid the foundation for a competitive 190/9. In reply, Punjab Kings fought valiantly, with Shashank Singh producing a spectacular unbeaten 61 off 30, but RCB’s bowlers held their nerve.
The Bowlers Who Sealed the Dream
Krunal Pandya’s crucial spell of 2/17 turned the tide, while Bhuvneshwar Kumar’s ice-cool death-over execution ensured that the final over drama ended in RCB’s favor. It was a complete team effort, defined by composure and clarity under pressure.
A Franchise Reborn
For a team long branded as perennial underachievers—losing three finals (2009, 2011, 2016) and enduring years of ridicule—this title win was nothing short of a rebirth. The infamous “Ee Sala Cup Namde” tagline, once a punchline for memes, is now a proud battle cry.From AB de Villiers joining the celebrations to former players and international icons congratulating the team, the victory has united generations of fans, inspired new ones, and silenced years of taunts.
From Hope to History
The victory is not just a sporting milestone—it’s a cultural moment. Streets across Bengaluru erupted with joy, fireworks lit up the skies, and social media exploded with emotion.
Royal Challengers Bengaluru are champions, not just in name, but in legacy. The cup is finally Namdu.
