JOIN USThe party that began last Monday in Goa reached a crescendo here on Tuesday as the newly-crowned I-League champions Bengaluru FC celebrated their stunning success in a fun-filled bus parade.
Cheered on by around 700 passionate fans, the players and support staff, dancing like kids, paraded atop a bus from Army Public School in Kamaraj Road via MG Road and Magrath Road before marching into their home -- the Bangalore Football Stadium.
Throughout the two-kilometre journey, ardent fans, braving the searing sun, jostled with each other for autographs from star India striker Sunil Chhetri and his lieutenant Robin Singh while some posed for selfies when the bus stopped.
Some lucky fans also got to lay their hands on the trophy and with loud music blaring, many motorists too joined the cavalcade, giving it a real happy look.
Starting with the now-official club anthem ‘When the Blues come marching in’ to ‘Ole Ole Ole Campeones’ to hit number of 2010 FIFA World Cup’s ‘Waving flag’ by K’naan to the iconic ‘We are the champions’ rendition by Queen, the DJ dished out the stuff that had everyone singing and dancing around the City’s central business area.
As the motorcade turned right at the Mayo Hall junction towards Bangalore Central, the fans suddenly veered into WWE mode -- not wrestling with each other! -- but chanting ‘Yes, Yes, Yes’ that has become a rage across the world.
Chhetri said it aptly during a speech after the entire team received the trophy from club CEO Parth Jindal.
“A man asked god three wishes. Firstly he wanted all the money in the world which was granted. Secondly, he wished to build the biggest club in the world which too was granted.
Thirdly, he wanted the best fans in the world but God said ‘Sorry young man, I’ve already granted BFC that!” said the striker to a standing ovation from the crowd.
“I’ve never seen a crowd like this, it’s completely crazy,” said local boy and BFC right back Vishal Kumar.
“The best thing about the crowd is they are not just locals. They come from different states and different walks of life. All I can say is that I’m living a dream.”
A good start has been been made and one just hopes Bengaluru FC leap higher with every passing season, bringing joy for a city that has been craving for regular dose of top-flight football.