IPL 2026: RCB Engage With Raipur Culture ahead of 'Home Matches'

The Royal Challengers Bengaluru squad visited a cultural expo in Raipur before their home fixtures, stepping away from training to explore Chhattisgarh’s traditions. Players engaged with local music, food, art and heritage, gaining insight into the region’s identity and the communities that preserve it.

Organisers greeted the team with folk music and dance as the players arrived at the venue. The squad then moved through stalls featuring tribal art, intricate handicrafts and regional dishes. The evening was designed to help Royal Challengers Bengaluru understand the culture around their temporary home base.

Royal Challengers Bengaluru experience Raipur and Chhattisgarh culture

A major attraction for the cricketers was Godna art, a tattoo style linked to tribal customs in Chhattisgarh. The players saw how the practice now appears on textiles and clothing. This shift helps keep the traditional motifs alive while reaching younger generations through wearable designs.

Captain Rajat Patidar described how the welcome set the tone for the visit. "I really liked it, especially when we entered and they played traditional music with drums while people were dancing. We also got to learn about the tribal communities here and their history, which was really special," said Captain Rajat Patidar.

The food section gave Royal Challengers Bengaluru a taste of local flavours from Bastar and across Chhattisgarh. The players tried Charota Bhaji, Kanda Bhaji and Tikur Sherbet, along with ragi-based preparations that are part of everyday diets in the state. The menu highlighted seasonal produce and regional cooking styles.

Royal Challengers Bengaluru connect with Raipur fans through culture

All-rounder Krunal Pandya spent extra time at the handicraft exhibits and shared a detailed reaction. "This is the first time I am coming to Raipur and it's been pretty amazing. I explored the rich heritage and culture that Chhattisgarh and Raipur offer us. People are so skillful over here, the handicraft the l art and how they have preserved it was something really unique to learn about. It's amazing to see how culture and traditions are being carried forward," he said.

Royal Challengers Bengaluru CEO Rajesh Menon said the cultural stop reinforced the team’s bond with Raipur. "Cricket has always created opportunities to connect beyond the game, and for our players, experiences like these make every visit even more meaningful. From experiencing the local cuisine to learning about the Godna art form and the communities preserving it, it was an authentic and enriching experience for the team. Raipur has welcomed us with tremendous warmth and support, and we're excited to bring RCB to a city that has truly made us feel at home," said Rajesh Menon, CEO, Royal Challengers Bengaluru.

RCB to play at Raipur

Royal Challengers Bengaluru are playing two home matches at Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Stadium in Raipur as their second venue. The fixtures are high-profile clashes against Mumbai Indians (May 10) and Kolkata Knight Riders (May 13).