Vijay Mallya – Former two term Member of Parliament, Chairman of The UB Group, Sports enthusiast, Veteran Formula One Team Principal, Championing Youth empowerment.
18 years of close calls, heartbreaks, and unwavering fan loyalty, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) finally lifted their maiden IPL trophy in 2025. The long-awaited triumph not only set social media abuzz but also unexpectedly brought back a name that had nearly faded from cricketing conversations Vijay Mallya.
Mallya, the once flamboyant business tycoon and former owner of RCB, resurfaced with a congratulatory message that sparked equal parts nostalgia, intrigue, and controversy. His brief comment, posted online, unleashed a cascade of reactions across India and the cricketing world. This wasn’t just about a tweet— it was a moment that connected the past and present of one of IPL’s most emotionally invested franchises.
A Dream Realized, A Ghost Rekindled
RCB’s first title win felt like a collective victory for millions of fans who had stood by the team through its 18-years rollercoaster journey. As images of Virat Kohli, Faf du Plessis, and the jubilant squad went viral, Mallya joined in with a congratulatory message:
“Proud moment for RCB! Congratulations to the team and the fans who have stood by through thick and thin. Finally, the Cup is home!”
The post went viral almost instantly. For many, it was a simple acknowledgment from a former stakeholder. For others, it opened a Pandora’s box of memories and opinions — some supportive, some scathing.
The Man Who Once Was RCB
To understand the weight of Mallya’s message, one must rewind to the early days of the Indian Premier League.
Back in 2008, Vijay Mallya acquired the Royal Challengers Bengaluru franchise for a staggering $111.6 million — one of the highest bids at the time. With his Kingfisher charm and flamboyant persona, Mallya aimed to build a team that reflected his brand’s aspirational image. However, RCB’s early seasons were rocky, with performances swinging between underwhelming and inconsistent.
Despite the setbacks, Mallya’s tenure brought global attention. He signed big-ticket players, invested heavily in marketing, and positioned RCB as a team of glitz and glamour — if not always glory. He was frequently seen at matches, hosting after-parties, and posing with players — embodying the extravagant spirit of IPL’s early years.
But the fairytale unravelled as Mallya’s financial empire began to crumble.
The Fall from Grace
By 2016, Kingfisher Airlines had grounded, and Mallya was facing serious allegations of financial misconduct, loan defaults, and money laundering.In a surprising twist during his recent podcast appearance, Mallya revisited the narrative around his alleged loan default. He boldly stated,
“The banks claimed I owed ₹6,203 crore. They have recovered over ₹14,000 crore through the sale of my assets. What more do they want?”, and his once-glamorous image was now synonymous with controversy and legal battles.
In March 2016, he quietly left India amid investigations and has since remained in the United Kingdom, battling extradition efforts. During this period, United Spirits, under the Diageo umbrella, took full control of RCB’s management, officially ending Mallya’s association with the franchise.
From then on, his voice was absent from IPL conversations — until now.
RCB’s Redemption: Victory and Vindication
RCB’s 2025 campaign was nothing short of a cinematic journey. Led by an experienced core and boosted by emerging stars, the team finally found the balance it had lacked for years. Kohli, who had carried the hopes of fans since inception, was instrumental in driving the team forward.
Winning the trophy was more than a sporting milestone — it was a catharsis for the franchise. In the midst of this celebration, Mallya’s comment rekindled a connection long thought buried.
Was this an attempt at redemption? Or simply a nostalgic nod to a team he once helped shape?
Public Reaction: A Mixed Bag
The internet was quick to respond. Thousands of memes and tweets poured in — some humorous, some harsh. Many fans ridiculed the timing of Mallya’s congratulatory message, with phrases like “Ghar aaja pardesi” trending on X (formerly Twitter), referencing his long absence from Indian soil.
Others defended his right to feel joy, noting his foundational role in RCB’s creation. Some pointed out that while Mallya’s financial misdeeds are well-documented, his investment helped make RCB a globally recognized brand.
One fan tweeted,
“Say what you will about Mallya, but RCB wouldn’t be where it is without him. Hate the man, but credit the vision.”
The Business Behind the Brand
RCB has long been one of the most valuable IPL franchises, known for its branding, merchandising, and massive digital fan base. Much of that groundwork was laid during Mallya’s ownership. While the team didn’t win titles under his leadership, it certainly captured hearts — an achievement that is arguably as significant in the commercial landscape of T20 cricket.
After Mallya’s exit, RCB continued to evolve. The franchise shifted its tone from flashy to focused, and under new management, it streamlined operations. The win in 2024 felt like a culmination of both legacy and modern strategy.
A Podcast Appearance Adds Fuel
Only days after the RCB win, Mallya appeared on Raj Shamani’s podcast, his first public interview in years. He reflected on the RCB victory, the downfall of Kingfisher, and even floated the idea of returning to India “if assured of a fair trial.”
This appearance, timed so close to RCB’s triumph, fueled speculation. Was Mallya trying to re-enter the Indian narrative through cricket? Or was it a coincidence that a man accused of absconding was now positioning himself as a misunderstood entrepreneur?
What Lies Ahead?
While Vijay Mallya’s message was brief, its impact was lasting. It reminded the cricketing world of the complex legacy behind IPL franchises — of how sports, business, and politics often intertwine in the Indian context.
RCB’s victory was a celebration of perseverance, strategy, and belief. Mallya’s commentary, though polarizing, served as a reminder of the journey — of the glitzy beginnings, the turbulent middle, and the ultimate redemption.
Whether Mallya remains a silent observer or continues to reappear in public discourse, one thing is certain: the RCB story, like India’s relationship with its maverick businessmen, is layered and unfinished.
Conclusion
As Royal Challengers Bangalore finally sit atop the IPL throne, the ghosts of their past — including Vijay Mallya — “More than memories, they are milestones — quietly reminding us that every victory carries the weight of its past.” Cricket, after all, is not just about runs and wickets. It’s about people, legacy, and the stories we choose to tell.
