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In preparation for their eagerly awaited Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 match against the Mumbai Indians (MI) in Raipur on Sunday, the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) team took a break from practice to delve into the vibrant culture and traditions of Chhattisgarh. They engaged with the local cuisine, music, art, and heritage at an expo that fostered a deeper connection with the state's spirit.

New Venue for Remaining Matches

Having played their initial five home games at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru, RCB will now host their last two 'home' matches of IPL 2026 at the Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Stadium in Raipur, as previously arranged.

A Memorable Cultural Experience

RCB's captain, Rajat Patidar, expressed his enjoyment of the cultural activities in Chhattisgarh. He noted the traditional music, drum performances, and dances as highlights, emphasizing that learning about the region's tribal communities and their history added significant value to their visit.

"I truly appreciated it, especially when we arrived and were greeted with traditional drum music and dancing. Learning about the local tribal communities and their history was particularly special," Patidar remarked.

Exploring Godna Art

A standout moment for the players was their introduction to Godna art, a traditional tattoo practice that is deeply embedded in tribal culture and has transitioned into textile and clothing designs to ensure its preservation across generations.

Krunal Pandya was especially captivated by the artistry and narratives behind the creations. "This is my first visit to Raipur, and it has been incredible. I discovered the rich heritage and culture that Chhattisgarh and Raipur provide. The craftsmanship and how they have preserved their art is truly unique. It's inspiring to see how traditions are maintained," he shared.

Savoring Local Flavors

The RCB players indulged in a variety of local dishes, including Charota Bhaji, Kanda Bhaji, Tikur Sherbet, and traditional ragi-based meals, allowing them to experience the authentic flavors of Bastar and Chhattisgarh.

Building Connections Beyond Cricket

"Cricket has always been a bridge for connections beyond the sport, and experiences like these enrich our players' visits. From tasting local cuisine to learning about the Godna art form and the communities that uphold it, this was a genuine and rewarding experience for the team. Raipur has embraced us with incredible warmth and support, and we are thrilled to bring RCB to a city that has made us feel at home," stated Rajesh Menon, CEO of Royal Challengers Bengaluru.