Table of Contents
Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s (RCB) long-standing dream finally became reality as they clinched their maiden Indian Premier League (IPL) title after 18 years, defeating Punjab Kings (PBKS) in a thrilling final at the Narendra Modi Stadium. Amid the outpouring of joy from fans and cricketing legends, it was a post from the franchise’s original owner, Vijay Mallya, that captured the imagination of social media and quickly went viral.
“Ee Sala Cup Namde!”: Virat Mallya’s tribute to RCB
Vijay Mallya, who founded RCB in 2008 and played a pivotal role in shaping the team’s early identity, took to X (formerly Twitter) moments after the historic win. His post, brimming with nostalgia and pride, read:
“RCB are IPL Champions finally after 18 years. 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!!”
RCB are IPL Champions finally after 18 years. 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 !!
— Vijay Mallya (@TheVijayMallya) June 3, 2025
The phrase “Ee sala cup namde” (This time the cup is ours) has been a rallying cry for RCB fans for years, and Mallya’s use of it struck a powerful chord with supporters who have endured the team’s near-misses and heartbreaks.
Mallya reflects RCB’s IPL journey and Virat Kohli’s loyalty for the franchise
In a follow-up post, Mallya reflected on his vision for the franchise and the emotional journey that culminated in this long-awaited triumph. He wrote: “When I founded RCB it was my dream that the IPL trophy should come to Bengaluru. I had the privilege of picking the legendary King Kohli as a youngster and it is remarkable that he has stayed with RCB for 18 years. I also had the honour of picking Chris Gayle the Universe Boss and Mr 360 AB De Villiers who remain an indelible part of RCB history. Finally, the IPL trophy arrives in Bengaluru. Congratulations and thanks again to all who made my dream come true. RCB fans are the very best and they deserve the IPL trophy. Ee Sala Cup Bengaluru baruthe!”
When I founded RCB it was my dream that the IPL trophy should come to Bengaluru. I had the privilege of picking the legendary King Kohli as a youngster and it is remarkable that he has stayed with RCB for 18 years. I also had the honour of picking Chris Gayle the Universe Boss…
— Vijay Mallya (@TheVijayMallya) June 3, 2025
Mallya’s words highlighted his role in signing Virat Kohli as a teenager during the inaugural IPL auction, a decision that shaped the franchise’s fortunes. He also recalled bringing in iconic players like Chris Gayle and AB de Villiers, both of whom were present at the final to witness the momentous occasion.
Mallya’s posts quickly went viral, with fans and former players sharing his messages across platforms. His emotional tribute resonated not only with RCB supporters but also with the wider cricketing community, many of whom remembered the franchise’s early struggles and repeated heartbreaks in three previous finals.
