Shocking Ritual: RCB Fans Arrested for Goat Sacrifice After IPL Victory

Incident Sparks Outrage in Karnataka

Bengaluru: Authorities in Karnataka have detained three fans of the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) for allegedly performing a goat sacrifice in front of a cutout of cricketer Virat Kohli in Mariyammanahalli village, located in the Molakalmuru taluk of Chitradurga district, as reported on Tuesday.

The individuals taken into custody—Sanna Palayya (22), Jayanna (23), and Tippe Swamy (28)—are all from the same village.

This shocking incident came to light after a video depicting the ritual went viral on social media, following RCB's exhilarating win against the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) at the Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru.

In the 20-second clip, one of the fans is shown holding a goat near Kohli’s cutout, while another announces RCB's victory over CSK. The goat is then slaughtered with a machete, and its blood is offered as a 'raktaabhisheka' (blood offering) to the cutout and a poster of Kohli, with a third person holding the goat in place.

The video, shared on Instagram by a user named 'call-me-143-kalki,' has drawn significant backlash online.

In response to the public outcry, the Molakalmuru police have filed a case and arrested the trio under applicable animal cruelty laws.

RCB, a beloved franchise in the IPL, boasts a dedicated fan base throughout Karnataka and beyond.

Despite not winning the IPL title in 18 seasons, the team's recent victories, including the notable win over CSK, have rekindled hopes among supporters for a championship this year.

Following the victory, celebrations among fans have escalated, with anticipation building for the upcoming matches.

Officials have condemned the act, labeling it a troubling manifestation of extreme and misguided fandom.