- By Aarushi Raina
- Thu, 05 Jun 2025 01:04 AM (IST)
- Source:JND
Bengaluru Stampede: What started as a moment of jubilation for Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) turned into a scene of grief and shock. As thousands of fans flocked to the streets and stadiums to celebrate RCB’s historic Indian Premier League (IPL) title win, a tragic stampede during a felicitation event near M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru left 11 fans dead and many injured.
RCB star batter Virat Kohli’s wife and actress Anushka Sharma, expressed her sorrow over this tragic incident by posting the franchise’s official statement on her Instagram handle, accompanied by three broken heart emojis, a symbol of her heartbreak amid what was supposed to be a joyous occasion.
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The team’s statement read, “We are deeply anguished by the unfortunate incidents that have come to light through media reports regarding public gatherings all over Bengaluru in anticipation of the team’s arrival this afternoon. The safety and well-being of everyone is of utmost importance to us."
The statement further read, "RCB mourns the tragic loss of lives and extends our heartfelt condolences to the affected families. Immediately upon being made aware of the situation, we promptly amended our program and followed the guidance and advice of the local administration. We urge all our supporters to please stay safe.”
The tragedy took place at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium, where the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) had organized a felicitation ceremony for the 2025 IPL champions. The event was set to be graced by Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, who was to honour the RCB players following their six-run win over Punjab Kings in the finale.
However, as fans arrived in overwhelming numbers many were entered without valid entry passes, which led to chaos. Eager to catch a glimpse of their cricketing stars, people were seen climbing the fences and walls. The event which started as a passionate fandom celebration soon turned into a nightmare as the crowd spiralled out of control, leading to a horrifying and tragic stampede.
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Virat Kohli and Anushka were spotted cherishing the moments but that joy was short-lived, as the city that had waited for 18 years for this victory suddenly found itself mourning lives lost during the celebrations. While RCB’s long-awaited triumph will remain historic this haunting tragic memory of what followed will forever be tied to the title celebrations of 2025.