Bengaluru/IBNS: India's cricket icon Virat Kohli, who is also the face of Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and lifted the IPL trophy for his team after 18 years, on Wednesday, said the stampede incident outside M Chinnaswamy Stadium in which 11 people lost their lives left him 'absolutely gutted'.

"At a loss for words. Absolutely gutted," Kohli wrote on Instagram at around 10:45 PM, while reposting a statement by RCB.

The RCB in its official statement said: "We are deeply anguished by the unfortunate incidents that have come to light through media reports regarding public gatherings all over Bengaluru in anticipation of the team's arrival this afternoon. The safety and well-being of everyone is of utmost importance to us."

"RCB mourns the tragic loss of lives and extend our heartfelt condolences to the affected families. Immediately upon being made aware of the situation, we promptly amended our program, and followed, the guidance and advice of the local administration," it said.

India's legendary batter Sachin Tendulkar also condoled the "tragic" stampede ouside the Chinnaswamy Stadium, where the Royal Challengers Bengaluru celebrated its first IPL title triumph in 18 years after beating Punjab Kings in the final on Tuesday.

Taking to X, Tendulkar posted: "What happened at Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru, is beyond tragic. My heart goes out to every affected family. Wishing peace and strength to all."

At least 11 people died and 50 others injured as a stampede broke out outside Bengaluru's Chinnaswamy Stadium where a massive crowd gathered to celebrate Royal Challengers Bengaluru's victory in the Indian Premier League (IPL), media reports said.

The fatal stampede broke out as the crowd swelled and turned uncontrollable outside the stadium, which has a capacity of roughly 40,000 people.

The BJP has accused the Congress-led government in the state of seeking publicity and not making adequate arrangements for the celebration.

Meanwhile, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, during a press conference this evening, stated that the administration did not expect the tragedy, as the stadium can accommodate 35,000 people.

"But the number of people who turned up is estimated to be two-three lakhs. We assumed there would be as many people as the stadium would accommodate or a bit more, but not as many as had actually turned up," Siddaramaiah said.

He announced a compensation of Rs 10 lakh to the families of those who were killed in the stampede, and free treatment for the injured.

"I have ordered a magisterial inquiry into this tragedy. Appropriate action will be taken against the guilty. Instructions have been given to submit the investigation report within 15 days," he said.

RCB lift maiden IPL trophy

India's cricket icon Virat Kohli's wait for the maiden IPL trophy ended on Tuesday as Bengaluru scripted their first-ever title win in the cash-rich T20 tournament at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.

Kohli moved to tears on the ground as Bengaluru's wait for their maiden trophy ended in a moment which felt surreal for the franchise that had unsuccessfully played three finals in the past since IPL's inception in 2008.

Bengaluru defeated Punjab Kings in the final, defending 190-9, which they piled in their quota of 20 overs.