A sea of excited humanity flooded the streets of South Mumbai’s Marine Drive, eagerly awaiting the victory parade of the triumphant Indian team that clinched the T20 World Cup. Thousands of fervent fans gathered, bringing traffic to a joyful halt as they awaited a glimpse of their beloved cricket stars.
The parade, aboard an open bus delayed by anticipation, finally kicked off from the National Centre for Performing Arts (NCPA) in Nariman Point after 7:30 p.m., winding its way towards the iconic Wankhede Stadium.
Normally a five-minute journey, this celebratory procession stretched into a majestic hour and a half as players basked in the evening glow illuminated not by rain but by pure adoration from their dedicated supporters. In 2007, Rohit Sharma stood as the youngest member of Mahendra Singh Dhoni’s legendary squad; now at 37, leading his own T20 World Champion Indian cricket team on this euphoric parade must have evoked a sense of nostalgia for him. As the oldest member guiding this new generation towards glory, he embodies experience and success – a living testament to ‘been there and done that’. Amidst all these emotions, the faces around him reflected pure joy and camaraderie.
As the bus weaved through the bustling crowd, memories of that rainy September day in 2007 flooded his mind, transporting him back to this Thursday evening in Mumbai.
Echoes of Mumbaicha Raja, Rohit Sharma filled the air, resonating through the city streets. The atmosphere exuded a sense of shared anticipation and joy as Rohit Sharma, amidst cheers and applause, reflected on the team’s remarkable victory.
The elation was palpable as Hardik Pandya basked in newfound acceptance, proudly hoisting the trophy for all to see. Once a criticized ‘Mumbai Indian,’ he was now hailed as an adored ‘Indian’ in his beloved Mumbai. The vibrant city was alive with an outpouring of love for the dynamic ‘Baroda Bomber,’ who had found a special place in their hearts.
Excitement and joy filled his heart as he yearned for acceptance and unwavering affection, and the vibrant city of Mumbai opened its arms to welcome him back with open embrace. Perhaps the gentle raindrops that fell from the sky were Mumbai’s collective apology for any past indifference towards Pandya during the IPL season.
The players reveled in the frenzy, swept up in the mass euphoria of a nation that adores its cricketers even more than the sport itself. Many had longed for just a glimpse of Virat Kohli, as if seeking solace in his presence amidst the bustling crowds. From distant corners like Virar to Thane, and even from across the country, people flocked to experience the electric atmosphere.
As if fulfilling a poet’s words, Bekararon ki Dawa Ek Nazar, Ek Nazar, each individual who journeyed from far and wide could relate to this sentiment. The King himself did not disappoint, leading skipper Suryakumar Yadav and Axar Patel in a lively dance with the renowned Nashik Dholwalas at Wankhede Stadium upon their arrival. Earlier that day, after a breakfast meeting with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi following their return from Barbados in the early hours of morning, the Indian team finally took flight from New Delhi around 3:42 p.m., bound for Mumbai and ready to create unforgettable memories on home soil once again.
The vibrant Wankhede Stadium opened its gates to a flood of ecstatic fans, who eagerly filled every corner of the stands to honor the team’s glorious victory. Upon arrival in the city, their plane was greeted with a grand Water Salute at the majestic Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport’s Terminal 2. Emerging from the airport, the players were greeted by a bustling crowd of supporters and media, creating an electrifying atmosphere that lasted for hours.
Despite the intermittent rain and stifling humidity, thousands of people remained captivated in their seats as they awaited the team’s arrival. The air was filled with pulsating music from the DJ, transforming the stadium into a lively dance party as familiar tunes like Vengaboys’ To Brazil and India’s beloved anthem Chak de India echoed through the speakers.
As chants of Sachin Sachin, Mumbaicha Raja, Rohit Sharma! and India India reverberated around Wankhede, the energy soared to new heights, infusing every heart with joy and pride.
