RCB IPL 2025 victory parade: Photo of Virat Kohli, DK Shivakumar sharing warm moment at HAL Airport goes viral

NEW DELHI: A wave of jubilation has swept across Karnataka after Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) clinched their maiden Indian Premier League (IPL) title, defeating Punjab Kings by six runs in a nail-biting final at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Tuesday night.

The long-awaited victory has sparked massive celebrations statewide, with the Karnataka government preparing an elaborate welcome for the champions in Bengaluru. Photos shared by the state government showed deputy chief minister DK Shivakumar greeting RCB stalwart Virat Kohli at HAL Airport, capturing the spirit of pride and camaraderie following the team’s historic win. Speaking on the government’s plans, Shivakumar said, “The RCB boys brought us pride and respect.

I watched the full match and congratulate them on behalf of the people of Karnataka. We welcome the RCB team with great joy. Our police officials and administration are actively working on how best to honour them. Preparations for the celebrations are underway.”

Adding to the fervour, Karnataka chief minister Siddaramaiah will personally meet and felicitate the RCB players at the iconic Vidhana Soudha. A photo session is scheduled on its grand steps, after which the official victory procession will begin.

“In the IPL final match, RCB defeated Punjab. They impressed millions of fans by performing as a cohesive unit throughout the tournament,” Siddaramaiah posted on X. “Virat Kohli’s 18 years of hard work, dedication and commitment have led RCB to this victory. RCB players are champions across the board—in bowling, batting, and fielding. There’s no doubt they delivered a superb performance.”RCB's triumphant campaign, after 18 seasons of heartbreak and near misses, has not only ended a historic drought but also united Karnataka in celebration. With Virat Kohli at the heart of this landmark achievement, the team’s first-ever IPL title has sent waves of joy through their loyal fan base and drawn admiration from the cricketing world.