The Chief of the Indian Premier League, Arun Dhumal, mentioned that the RCB celebrations ended on Thursday and that authorities didn’t know about events planned for Bengaluru on Friday. Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) won their very first IPL trophy after 18 years, beating Punjab Kings (PBKS) in the IPL 2025 final that took place on June 3 in Ahmedabad.
However, what was supposed to be a joyous occasion turned tragic during the victory celebrations in Bengaluru, when a stampede killed 11 people and injured many more. Dhumal explained that all rituals and festivities officially sanctioned by the team and the IPL had been finished earlier that night. The unexpected and unofficial throng that gathered in Bengaluru to celebrate RCB’s historic success descended into mayhem, resulting in the tragic loss of life.
“For the BCCI, the IPL ended last night. Whatever celebrations were to happen, it culminated with the ceremony that we had last night. Now how this incident took place, we have no knowledge of it. We had no idea of this kind of event taking place in Bengaluru.”
Arun Dhumal
The RCB players arrived to celebrate their first IPL championship with thousands of fans. The massive throng caused havoc, with several fans suffocated from the overcrowding. In the midst of the turmoil, the stadium gates collapsed, injuring multiple individuals.
Despite police efforts to regulate the situation, the throng outnumbered security officers, making it difficult to maintain control. Unfortunately, the triumph celebrations turned tragic, with several people hurt and many lives lost.
The RCB published an official statement regarding the unfortunate events that occurred.
“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 read.
“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,” it said further.
