Bhubaneswar: Streets of the twin cities of Bhubaneswar and Cuttack came alive with jubilant celebrations after India cruised to a six-wicket win over arch-rivals Pakistan in their ICC Champions Trophy Group A encounter in Dubai on Sunday.
Enthusiastic fans poured onto the roads after India’s victory, waving the tricolour and chanting “India, India!” in a display of national pride and joy. Youngsters, bikers and families gathered across major junctions, bursting crackers and waving flags.
A spontaneous victory rally was witnessed in several parts of both cities, including Buxi Bazaar, College Square, Badambadi and CDA in Cuttack, and Master Canteen, Chandrasekharpur and Saheed Nagar in Bhubaneswar, where fans held bike parades amid drum beats. Supporters danced in the streets, while some distributed sweets.
Several clubs and hotels had arranged screenings of the match, accompanied by favourite cuisines.
Asutosh Mohanty, a resident of Cuttack, said, “It was an unforgettable match. The way India dominated was simply outstanding. We couldn’t contain our excitement and came out to celebrate with our fellow fans.”
Another cricket enthusiast, Rahul Pattanaik, who was part of the celebrations at Buxi Bazaar, said, “Cricket is an emotion for us. Beating Pakistan always adds to the thrill. It feels amazing to be part of such a grand celebration, especially after Kohli’s century.”
Senior resident Biswaranjan Das, who watched the match at home with his family, said, “This win means a lot to every Indian. The players gave their best, and we are proud of them.”
Dibakar Bhuyian, manager of a star hotel in Bhubaneswar, said, “We had set up special screenings for our guests with a curated menu of Indian delicacies. The atmosphere was electrifying, and the guests celebrated the victory as if they were in the stadium itself.”