June 7, 2025
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RCB victory Parade

RCB's parent company Diageo continues to maintain silence on Bengaluru stampede | Cricket News

RCB’s parent company Diageo continues to maintain silence on Bengaluru stampede | Cricket News

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Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s IPL trophy celebrations were marred by a stampede. New Delhi: It’s been close to 48 hours since 11 lives were lost and 75 were injured due to the stampede caused by the Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s (RCB) victory parade on June 4, hours after they ended their Indian Premier League title wait. The celebrations in and around the Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru turned out to be a big fat mess and many innocent lives were lost due the chaos.The franchise has copped plenty of criticism but it has come as a surprise that its parent company – Diageo – a British multinational alcoholic company, continues to maintain silence over the matter. There have been a couple of statements by the RCB but not a single word from Diageo yet.Go Beyond The Boundary with our YouTube channel. SUBSCRIBE NOW!TimesofIndia.com reached out to the company last night with a very specific set of questions – reaction to the Bengaluru stampede, reason for the company’s silence, whether they were satisfied with the arrangements made by the RCB and whether it mars the end of 18-year-long wait for a title – but there has been no response yet. The story will be updated the moment they share a response. Poll Which measure is more effective to prevent tragedies during large gatherings? Gautam Gambhir sends stern message after Bengaluru tragedy The Bengaluru Police have already swung into action and have arrested RCB’s marketing head Nikhil Sosale earlier on Friday morning. Apart from Sosale, three employees of DNA Entertainment Networks were also arrested. The police, in the FIR, have claimed that they denied RCB the permission to conduct the parade at the Chinnaswamy. Further investigation and rounds of questioning will reveal what actually transpired on June 4.The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) continues to maintain that the event was organised by the RCB and they had no role to play in it. IPL Governing Council Chairman Arun Dhamal has asserted that he alerted the RCB officials when things went out of control outside the cricket ground. Meanwhile, the event inside continued even when chaos prevailed.During a press conference on June 5, India head coach Gautam Gambhir minced no words on the tragedy in Bengaluru. Scene outside the Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru where a stampede occurred on June 4. “I was never a believer that we need to have roadshows. Never. When I was playing, I had the same statement even after winning the 2007 (T20 World Cup)… The lives of people are far more important and I will continue to say that,” Gambhir said ahead of the team’s departure for England.“What has happened is very tragic. My heart goes out to the families who have lost their loved ones,” he said. “I hope in the future nothing like this happens because I think we all are responsible citizens. We should take care of all this,” Gambhir added.It now remains to be seen what transpires next because what happened in Bengaluru has not pleased the top brass of the Indian cricket board too.

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RCB react to Chinnaswamy stampede which killed 11 fans: ‘Upon being made aware of the situation, we promptly…’

RCB react to Chinnaswamy stampede which killed 11 fans: ‘Upon being made aware of the situation, we promptly…’

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Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) issued a joint statement following the stampede outside the M Chinnaswamy Stadium amid the franchise’s Indian Premier League (IPL) victory celebrations on Wednesday. The incident led to 11 RCB fans losing their lives and 33 getting injured. Both RCB and KSCA expressed deep concern and heartfelt condolence after the stampede marred RCB’s victory celebrations. RCB and the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) react to the stampede outside the Chinnaswamy Stadium. (AFP) RCB were supposed to hold a victory parade from Vidhana Soudha to the M Chinnaswamy Stadium on Wednesday evening. Throughout the day, there was no clarity on whether the parade would go ahead, as initially, the Bengaluru traffic police denied permission, saying there might be too much chaos.  As soon as RCB reached the Vidhana Soudha to meet the Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, a stampede was reported outside the Chinnaswamy Stadium. Thousands had gathered to celebrate RCB’s maiden IPL title win. However, the police failed to manage the crowd, leading to an unfortunate incident unfolding outside the ground.  Also Read: BCCI shocked but has ‘no role’ in Bengaluru stampede that caused deaths, injuries “RCB – KSCA expresses deep concern and heartfelt condolences regarding the unfortunate incident that occurred during the celebration organised by Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) at M Chinnaswamy Stadium earlier today,” the KSCA stated in its statement.  “We are profoundly saddened by the tragic loss of life and the injuries sustained by individuals during this event. Our thoughts and prayers are with the families affected by this incident. We sincerely regret this tragedy and stand in solidarity with the bereaved families during this extremely difficult time,” the statement added.  On the other hand, RCB in their official statement, said that the franchise is deeply anguished by the unfortunate incident outside the Chinnaswamy Stadium.  “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,” RCB stated.  “RCB mourns the tragic loss of lives and extend 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 statement added.  ‘Compensation not intended to replace the value of human life’ KSCA also announced INR 5 lakh for the families who have lost their loved ones. However, this gesture is not intended to replace the value of human life, the joint statement stated.  “RCB – KSCA announces 5 lakhs to the families of those who have lost their loved ones. We hope this gesture can offer some support and solace in their time of grief,” the statement read.  “We want to emphasize that this compensation is not intended to determine or replace the value of human life, but rather to serve as a gesture of support and solidarity during such challenging times. Thank you for your understanding and support,” it added. The victory celebrations inside the Chinnaswamy Stadium lasted for half an hour as Rajat Patidar and Virat Kohli gave short speeches, thanking the crowd for their constant support.  The RCB team then took a lap around the ground to celebrate the title win. RCB defeated Punjab Kings by six runs in the IPL 2025 final to win their maiden title at the Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad on Tuesday. 

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Watch: Fans climb trees and buses to witness RCB’s IPL victory | Cricket News

Watch: Fans climb trees and buses to witness RCB’s IPL victory | Cricket News

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Bengaluru: An aerial view of fans gathering for Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s fan engagement programme (PTI Photo) Bengaluru came alive on Wednesday as Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) returned home with their first IPL trophy. Thousands of fans filled the streets, stood on rooftops, and gathered around Vidhana Soudha and Chinnaswamy Stadium just to see their favourite players — especially Virat Kohli, who has been part of the team for 18 years. The RCB squad, led by Rajat Patidar, landed in the city around noon. They were welcomed at the airport by Karnataka’s Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar. The team then went to meet Chief Minister Siddaramaiah at Vidhana Soudha, where a short ceremony was held to honour their achievement. ‘A particularly special feeling’: Andy Flower hails Virat Kohli, RCB after historic title win “Virat Kohli has given his youth and heart to RCB. Today, he has made Karnataka proud,” Shivakumar said. After meeting the CM, the players got on an open-top bus for a victory parade to Chinnaswamy Stadium. Fans lined up along the route, many waving flags, holding posters, and cheering loudly. Some climbed trees, buses and walls for a better view. It was a special moment for everyone who had supported the team for years.Quiz: Who’s that IPL player? RCB defeated Punjab Kings by six runs in the final, finally ending their 18-year wait for the title. The celebrations started early in the day and continued into the evening at the stadium, where fans were allowed in to be part of the moment. For RCB and their fans, it was more than just a win as it was the end of a long wait.

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RCB's victory parade turns deadly: How events unfolded at Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru | Cricket News

RCB’s victory parade turns deadly: How events unfolded at Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru | Cricket News

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NEW DELHI: Newly-crowned IPL champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru were greeted with a thunderous and emotional reception as passionate fans flooded the streets and gathered in massive numbers at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium to catch a glimpse of their heroes—most notably the ever-iconic Virat Kohli. It was yet another major milestone for Kohli, who has remained loyal to RCB since the inception of the league.Wednesday witnessed a mix of jubilation and tragedy. While fans celebrated with euphoric chants and cheers, the excitement unfortunately turned into chaos, with a stampede leaving several injured and claiming lives.TimesofIndia.com takes you through a timeline of how the day unfolded:– The RCB team, led by skipper Rajat Patidar, landed at Bengaluru airport. The players and support staff were welcomed with loud cheers and were formally received by Karnataka’s Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar.– The squad then proceeded to meet Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah at the Vidhana Soudha. Jubilant fans lined the route, waving flags and raising chants to celebrate the team’s long-awaited IPL triumph.– At Vidhana Soudha, the team was officially felicitated by the state government. The ceremony began with the national anthem and was attended by CM Siddaramaiah, Deputy CM DK Shivakumar, and other key officials. ‘A particularly special feeling’: Andy Flower hails Virat Kohli, RCB after historic title win – Post-felicitation, the players made their way to the M Chinnaswamy Stadium for a special fan-engagement event. Thousands had already gathered at the venue in anticipation, eager to celebrate alongside their beloved RCB.– The triumphant RCB squad arrived at Chinnaswamy Stadium to an electrifying atmosphere.– Tragedy struck as reports emerged of a stampede near the stadium gates. Several people were feared dead and many injured as the crowd surged to enter the premises.– Despite the grim development, RCB conducted a victory lap inside the stadium, proudly displaying the hard-earned IPL trophy that had eluded them for 18 seasons.– Addressing the crowd during the felicitation, Virat Kohli shared an emotional message:“I don’t have much time, we need to wrap this up and show you the trophy so please let me talk. I am going to start off by repeating what our captain said after we won the trophy. It’s no more ee sala cup namde, it’s ee sala cup namdu. We have done it, this is not just for the players or someone like me who has been here for 18 years but for all of you, the people of this wonderful city. People who have supported RCB through all these 18 years. The trust and love you have for the team is truly special, I have never seen any fan base anywhere in the world like you. So congratulations to all of you.”

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'DISGRACED': BCCI shocked but has 'no role' in Bengaluru stampede that caused deaths, injuries during RCB victory parade

‘DISGRACED’: BCCI shocked but has ‘no role’ in Bengaluru stampede that caused deaths, injuries during RCB victory parade

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The Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s celebration of their maiden IPL title – ending an 18-year-long wait – turned into chaos on Wednesday, after a stampede outside the Chinnaswamy Stadium left four people dead and several injured. Calling it a “shocking” incident, BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia blamed lapses in security arrangements and extended condolences to the families of the deceased. Speaking to Hindustan Times, the top BCCI official said that he is disgraced by the incident.  BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia reacted after deaths, injuries were reported due to stampede outside Chinnaswamy(AP) Thousands gathered outside the Chinnaswamy stadium to catch a glimpse of their favourite RCB stars, who beat the Punjab Kings on Tuesday in Ahmedabad to win the IPL title. But the police struggled to take control of the situation, forced to resort to mild force as well.  “I am just not shocked but disgraced by this incident. This event of tragedy that has happened in the victory celebrations in Bengaluru today. It was such a wonderful and colourful closing of the IPL. It’s really shocking for us. We are really frustrated to hear this kind of news, and we are extremely sorry. We extend our heartfelt condolences to all the members of the bereaved families, and we also pray that whoever is injured will recover at the earliest,” the secretary said. The festive mood outside the Chinnaswamy Stadium quickly turned into agony as several ardent RCB supporters lost their lives because of the stampede. Many others had to be hospitalised as well. The RCB event continued irrespective, although Saikia insisted it is unfair to comment on why the celebrations went ahead. “I do not know. What is the ground reality? There may be a lot of other reasons. We don’t know what the further outcome could have been. It will not be proper for me to pass any comment. My only concern is that there must have been some serious lapses on the part of the organisers and the district authorities in allowing this kind of event where so many people gathered without following the due protocols of safety, security, and law and order,” he said. “Whenever BCCI or any cricket association organises this kind of events – like yesterday, also in Ahmedabad, where 1.3 lakh fans assembled in that stadium – you always take precautions, and there is proper planning with the district authorities and police. So that when there is a gathering of a huge number of people, certain protocols are to be maintained to ensure that no situation like this happens. For example, take last year’s World Cup-winning celebration in Mumbai after the T20 World Cup was won by India in the West Indies. There was proper planning by the BCCI. Despite so many people, not a single unfortunate incident happened because everything was done in a very systematic and disciplined manner,” he added.  Saikia asserted that the proper protocols were not followed, and hence, a situation like this transpired. “The proper protocol was not maintained in Karnataka today in Bengaluru. It was such a short time. I do not know, it is not possible to plan this kind of event at such short notice. So maybe somebody has made some mistake at some point in time. As a result, this unfortunate event or tragedy has taken place as a result of which so many cricket lovers, so many cricket fans have lost their lives, and so many others have gotten injured in the incident,” he said. ‘Need to do some soul searching’ The BCCI secretary also stated that this incident in Bengaluru will now prompt the board to brainstorm with franchises on how celebrations need to be looked at once the IPL is over. “We hope good sense will prevail, and in future, whoever organises such events will follow the necessary protocols after having proper due diligence. The authorities are responsible for such celebrations. After the IPL is over, BCCI directly has no role to play,” he said. “That is why we are a little bit more shocked. Maybe we’ll have to think about the future because every year, there will be celebrations by the winning team in some cities. Maybe we’ll have to do some soul-searching and some brainstorming sessions to set some norms on how things can be celebrated so that in future this kind of tragedy is not repeated,” Saikia pointed out.

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Ecstatic fans line up streets to welcome IPL champions RCB in Bengaluru

Ecstatic fans line up streets to welcome IPL champions RCB in Bengaluru

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Royal Challengers Bengaluru team was received by State’s Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar at the airport on June 4, 2025. | Photo Credit: Special Arrangement Newly-crowned IPL champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru touched base at the Garden City on Wednesday (June 4, 2025) afternoon amid a roaring welcome from waiting fans, who lined up the streets to catch a glimpse of the star-studded side. Also read | IPL 2025: Karnataka CM to felicitate champions RCB at Vidhana Soudha; celebrations planned at Chinnaswamy Stadium The Rajat Patidar-led team was received by State’s Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar at the airport. En route to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah’s office at the Vidhana Soudha in Bengaluru, fans assembled on both sides of the road cheered the triumphant squad with gusto. RCB defeated Punjab Kings by six runs in the IPL final at Ahmedabad on Tuesday to clinch their maiden title in 18 years. Fans gather at the Vidhana Soudha for the grand felicitation of IPL 2025 winning Royal Challengers Bengaluru team, in Bengaluru, on June 4, 2025. | Photo Credit: PTI It was another major achievement for the team’s talisman Virat Kohli, who has only played for this franchise since the league’s inception. After the appointment with the CM, the RCB players will head to the M Chinnaswamy Stadium for a fan engagement programme. The much-anticipated open-top bus parade from Vidhana Soudha to the stadium will also start at 5 p.m. after the CM gave special permission for it. It was earlier stated by the Bengaluru Traffic Police that it might not take place because of congestion on the route. “We request all fans to follow guidelines set by police and other authorities, so that everyone can enjoy the roadshow peacefully,” the franchise posted on its official ‘X’ page. The rainy weather in the city hasn’t helped and the police endured a difficult time managing the crowd that flooded the streets to celebrate the triumph last night. In visuals shared online, Kohli could be seen holding the trophy and watching in awe, thousands of fans who lined up the team’s bus route, cheerfully waving at the convoy. Published – June 04, 2025 05:07 pm IST

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IPL 2025 champions RCB welcomed by Karnataka Deputy CM on arrival in Bengaluru

IPL 2025 champions RCB welcomed by Karnataka Deputy CM on arrival in Bengaluru

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Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar gave a grand welcome to IPL 2025 champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru as they touched down in the city following their historic title win. Star players, including captain Rajat Patidar and the ever-iconic Virat Kohli, were greeted with special flower bouquets and warm congratulations at the airport. The atmosphere was electric as fans gathered in large numbers to catch a glimpse of their heroes, who ended an 18-year wait for the coveted IPL trophy with a thrilling six-run win over Punjab Kings in the final in Ahmedabad.

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