Daijiworld Media Network - Bengaluru
Bengaluru, May 6: In a disturbing incident that has sparked widespread outrage, Karnataka police have arrested three Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) fans for allegedly performing a goat sacrifice in front of a life-size cutout of cricketer Virat Kohli in Mariyammanahalli village, Molakalmuru taluk, Chitradurga district.
The arrested individuals — Sanna Palayya (22), Jayanna (23), and Tippe Swamy (28) — are all residents of the village and were taken into custody after a video of the incident went viral on social media.
The 20-second clip, which surfaced shortly after RCB's thrilling victory over Chennai Super Kings (CSK) at Bengaluru’s Chinnaswamy Stadium, shows one man holding a goat in front of Kohli’s cutout.
As another enthusiastically announces RCB’s triumph, the goat is slaughtered with a machete, and its blood is offered as raktaabhisheka (a blood ritual) to Kohli’s image. A third man is seen restraining the animal with a rope.
The video, originally uploaded on Instagram by a user under the handle “call-me-143-kalki,” drew swift condemnation and led to police action. Authorities from Molakalmuru police station filed a case under relevant sections of the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act and arrested the trio.
“This is an appalling display of blind devotion,” said a senior police official. “While people are free to support their teams passionately, such acts involving animal cruelty cannot be tolerated.”
RCB, known for its die-hard fan base, enjoys immense popularity in Karnataka and beyond. Despite having never won an IPL title in its 18-season history, the team’s recent performances — including their dramatic win over CSK — have reignited hopes among supporters.
The emotionally charged celebrations took a dark turn in Mariyammanahalli, however, highlighting how fanaticism can spiral out of control. Officials and activists alike have condemned the act, calling it an extreme and misguided form of fandom.
As the IPL season heats up, police have urged fans to celebrate responsibly and avoid unlawful or harmful practices. Further investigations into the social media origin and local encouragement behind the ritual are ongoing.