Every April–May from past 18 years, Bengaluru transforms into a sea of red and black as fans don RCB jerseys and pour into pubs, chanting their team’s praises. For many, RCB (Royal Challengers Bengaluru) isn’t just a cricket franchise—it’s Karnataka pride incarnate. 🏏 But beneath the enthusiasm lies a deeper truth: RCB is owned by United Spirits, a subsidiary of Diageo, a global alcohol behemoth (ref: [1], [2]).
🥂 Ownership & Branding: Irony in Red
- The team’s name, Royal Challengers, is derived from Diageo’s Royal Challenge Whiskey (ref: [1]).
- Despite widespread awareness of alcohol-related warnings, the franchise thrives on branding from a company promoting spirits.
Public Identity vs. Corporate Interests
- Over 180 million people follow RCB across platforms, making it one of IPL’s most beloved teams (ref: [1]).
- Fans chant "Play Bold" thinking they’re cheering for Karnataka’s team, yet they actively amplify Diageo’s liquor messaging through their support.
The Stampede: A Tragic Symbol
- On June 4, 2025, during RCB’s historic IPL triumph, a celebratory stampede outside Chinnaswamy Stadium left 11 fans dead and over 50 injured (ref: [1], [2]).
- Though RCB promised ₹10 lakh compensation for each victim, both the franchise and its parent—United Spirits and Diageo—have offered no public response beyond generic condolences (ref: [1], [2]).
The Circus of Distraction
This isn’t just about cricket. It’s about distraction and redirection. In Game of Thrones, King Robert once remarked, “Give them a show, and they’ll forget they’re hungry.” The IPL is our modern-day coliseum. Lights, cheers, superstar players — they give us joy, yes — but they also give us a reason not to question the more pressing issues: unemployment, rising prices, crumbling infrastructure, unfulfilled promises or critical civic issues.
Questions That Demand Answers
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Why is corporate-sponsored spectacle receiving more attention than public welfare?
Billboards, jerseys, and celebrations funded by an alcohol company make the brand part of Karnataka’s identity. -
Where is United Spirits/Diageo’s accountability?
Despite the tragedy, their silence raises concerns about prioritizing profit over public responsibility (ref: [1]). -
Why celebrate alcohol-linked brands while ignoring health risks?
The government’s “Alcohol is injurious to health” warns contrast sharply with flood of ads, sponsorships, and brand merch.
Redirecting Our Loyalties - Not Anti-Sport, But Pro-Consciousness
- Sports have power, and sports franchises can positively influence communities. But when a drink brand underpins fandom, we must question where our loyalties lie.
- Cheer for your team, but ask who profits from that cheer.
- Love cricket — but love truth more.
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