Indian Cricket fans marked their attendance in large numbers, braving monsoon showers and heavy security, to express their support as India's T20 World Cup-winning cricket stars returned home to a euphoric reception on Thursday. Prime Minister Narendra Modi hosted the team for a breakfast meet to celebrate their victory.

Hundreds of supporters, holding placards and waving the national flag, waited outside the airport despite the inclement weather to welcome the victorious side, which had defeated South Africa by seven runs in the final in Bridgetown the previous Saturday. The atmosphere was festive with dancing, multiple cakes, and fans lining the streets, highlighting the passionate following of cricket in India.

The team, delayed from returning home due to a shutdown caused by Hurricane Beryl in Barbados, was confined to their hotel until BCCI Secretary Jay Shah arranged for a special charter flight. The Air India flight, AIC24WC -- Air India Champions 24 World Cup -- landed in Delhi at 6am IST after a 16-hour non-stop journey.

Despite heavy security at the Indira Gandhi International airport, the fans' enthusiasm remained undeterred as they cheered and held posters of star players like Virat Kohli, skipper Rohit Sharma, and outgoing head coach Rahul Dravid. The team was transported in two buses from the T3 Terminal to ITC Maurya Sheraton, where they were greeted by dhol and traditional Bhangra dancers.

Skipper Rohit Sharma, all-rounder Hardik Pandya, Suryakumar Yadav, and Rishabh Pant joined the dancers, adding to the joyous celebration and creating unforgettable memories for the fans.