As the Indian Premier League begins in 2026, former captain Vijay Mallya shared his feelings in his words, Team Royal Challengers Bengaluru. As he referred to the Lions of Bengaluru (Our Lions), he wished an optimistic team on their way toward performance and said to play “bold, play your heart and do things from behind” (or “Play with courage”) and to give the team leadership in the best way possible.
Hm That's just the moment when the tweet went viral of course. As one can sense as well, it ranged from social media. RCB fans loved it nostalgic and the genuine message but wondered why has Mallya kept to be associated with the franchise he previously owned?
Despite Twitter responses, the timing of the tweet made RCB’s opening match even more satisfying. The IPL 2026 has a much more balanced squad of Bengaluru teams now. For Bengaluru fans there is no denying “Play Bold” is not just a hashtag, but a statement about what they do and why they are playing hard these days.
The Day has arrived for our Lions of Bengaluru…namma sinhagulu…IPL Champions. Good Luck and Play Bold…Dhairyadinda ațavadi.
— Vijay Mallya (@TheVijayMallya) March 28, 2026
Deep-rooted in RCB since being instrumental in spearheading the development of one of the most popular teams, Mallya told Indian media and in many of the many teammates who have seen him working out with his team from early days that he always felt he did so passionately. His new message serves only to send the feeling that he remains loyal even after years of leaving the league.
RCB fans are rallying around RCB supporters now. Everything in the city is vibrating. In the front office of the city, the atmosphere is contagious and your jersey, in the street, and on social media are all here as we head toward one another in front of that day. We are expecting this team to go ahead and we want to win IPL finals again.
RCB is always there whether on the field or online. From a fresh season of the year (in 2026) it is very apparent that Bengaluru is behind their team as whole. When it truly needs supporting everyone, you cannot take a step back. They only want to follow the team at all points that they can with a voice and a fist raised.
