‘No Roadshows, No Regrets’: Gambhir’s Message After Bengaluru Tragedy

The tragic stampede in Bengaluru that claimed 11 lives during a cricket celebration has deeply affected India’s cricket fraternity, and none more so than head coach Gautam Gambhir. Known for his outspoken nature, Gambhir used the pre-tour press conference to voice his strong opposition to roadshows and public celebrations that risk public safety.

“I was never a believer in roadshows,” Gambhir said firmly. Recalling the aftermath of India’s 2007 T20 World Cup win, he revealed that he had made similar statements then, advocating for safer ways to celebrate. “Lives of the people are far more important and I will continue to say that even in the future,” he added.

Gambhir suggested that celebrations should be confined to closed-door or stadium events where crowd control can be managed effectively. “Instead of holding a roadshow, there could have been a closed-door or stadium celebration,” he said. His message was clear: no victory or celebration is worth risking human lives.

Expressing his condolences, Gambhir said, “It is very tragic and my heart goes to the family of the people who’ve lost their loved ones. I hope in future nothing like this happens.” He emphasised that every life matters and that organisers must take responsibility for crowd safety. “You cannot at any point of time lose 11 people,” he said with palpable emotion.

The tragedy has sparked a wider debate about the culture of public celebrations in India, especially involving sports teams. Gambhir’s stance reflects a growing awareness in the cricket community that while winning is important, it must never come at the cost of public safety.

By speaking out, Gambhir has set a tone of responsibility and caution, urging fans, organisers, and authorities to prioritise human life above all else. His call for safer celebrations is a sobering reminder that cricket’s joy should never be overshadowed by tragedy.