‘Ee Sala Cup Namde’: Vijay Mallya, Fans, and IPL Fraternity Celebrate RCB's Historic Title Win
Date: June 4, 2025
By: TOI Sports Desk
Ahmedabad – After 18 long years of heartbreak, near misses, and unwavering fan support, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) have finally etched their name into the annals of IPL history. On June 3, 2025, RCB lifted their first-ever Indian Premier League title, defeating Punjab Kings by 6 runs in a thrilling final at the Narendra Modi Stadium.
One of the most emotional tributes came from Vijay Mallya, the franchise’s former owner, who led the chorus of celebrations on social media.
“RCB are IPL Champions finally after 18 years,” Mallya posted on X. “Superb campaign right through the 2025 tournament. A well-balanced team Playing Bold with outstanding coaching and support staff. Many congratulations! Ee sala cup namde!!”
Mallya, who owned the team during its early years, had witnessed RCB’s painful defeats in the finals of 2009, 2011, and 2016. His nostalgic message resonated with millions of long-time supporters who stayed loyal despite the team’s rollercoaster journey.
Cricketing World Joins the Celebration
RCB’s victory drew applause from across the IPL community:
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Mumbai Indians, the five-time champions, tweeted:
“Congratulations to the NEW #TATAIPL Champions, @RCBTweets. A strong & memorable campaign.” -
Chennai Super Kings, RCB’s fierce rivals, showed sportsmanship with:
“Congratulations, @RCBTweets! #IPL2025Final #WhistlePodu.” -
Kolkata Knight Riders wrote:
“EE SALA CUP NIMDE, CONGRATULATIONS.”
Other franchises like Sunrisers Hyderabad, Delhi Capitals, Lucknow Super Giants, and Rajasthan Royals joined in with supportive posts, memes, and videos, marking the end of one of IPL’s longest title droughts.
Virat Kohli’s Tears Say It All
For Virat Kohli, the moment was deeply personal. Having carried the team's hopes since his debut in 2008, Kohli fell to his knees in tears after the final ball. His raw emotion became the defining image of the night — a symbol of persistence, passion, and loyalty rewarded at last.
With RCB’s long-awaited triumph, the slogan "Ee Sala Cup Namde" – meaning “This year the cup is ours” – has finally come true. Not just a chant anymore, it now echoes as a fulfilled promise and a historic moment in Indian Premier League folklore.
