Actress Anushka Sharma expressed her deep sorrow over the tragic stampede that occurred during the victory celebrations of Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), which claimed the lives of 10 people in Bengaluru.
Taking to her Instagram, Anushka reshared RCB’s official statement, which acknowledged the incident and expressed condolences, emphasizing that “the safety and well-being of everyone is of utmost importance.” The tragedy struck during public gatherings across the city as fans eagerly awaited the arrival of the team, fresh off their first-ever IPL title win.
“We are deeply anguished by the unfortunate incidents that have come to light through media reports…,” read the team’s statement.
A Personal Victory for Anushka and Virat
While the city celebrated RCB’s long-awaited IPL triumph, it was a particularly emotional moment for Anushka Sharma. Hailing from Bengaluru, and having supported the team for years alongside her husband Virat Kohli, the actress found herself at the heart of a bittersweet historic moment.
Kohli, the veteran cricketer and former Indian Test captain, shared an emotional tribute to his wife on Instagram following the final, posting a heartfelt photo from the post-match celebrations. The caption read:
“I’ve seen it for 18 years and she’s seen it for 11. Suffered the same moments since 2014 and celebrated every close win and the madness of our supporters at the Chinnaswamy. We’re both equally relieved and since she’s a Bangalore girl too, this is far more special for her. Together all the way through.”
The image showed Kohli embracing Anushka with tears streaming down his face—a moment that was widely captured by the cameras and has already become symbolic in the annals of India’s pop-culture history.
RCB’s Journey to Glory
RCB finally broke their title drought in IPL 2025, clinching victory at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. Batting first, the team scored 190/9, with Kohli top-scoring at 43 off 35 balls. Punjab Kings fought valiantly in response, but ultimately fell short at 184/7, with RCB lifting the trophy for the first time in their 18-year history.
Over the years, RCB has cultivated one of the most passionate fanbases in Indian sports. For supporters, this victory represents not just a championship, but the culmination of nearly two decades of loyalty, heartbreak, and unwavering belief.
