Gambhir participated in two IPL championship celebrations in Kolkata in 2012 and 2014. He was also a member of the Men in Blue during the open bus parade in Mumbai after their T20 World Cup victory in 2007. He urged everyone to act as responsible citizens and avoid organizing events when ill-prepared.
“That is indeed a significant question, and I have to address it. I’ve never supported the idea of road shows. I voiced the same sentiment after winning the T20 World Cup in 2007 that we shouldn’t have them,” Gambhir stated to reporters.
Previously, Gambhir had attended two felicitation events organized by the Mamata Banerjee-led TMC government at Eden Gardens, but there were no road shows at that time. He emphasized that lives are the top priority and called for caution moving forward.
“I believe that people’s lives are far more valuable, and I will keep reiterating that. In the future, we should be more mindful about avoiding such road shows. Maybe we can consider conducting them behind closed doors or within stadiums.
“What transpired yesterday is truly tragic, and my heart goes out to the families and those who lost their loved ones. I hope nothing like this occurs in the future, as we all share the responsibility,” the former India opener remarked.
When asked if the nature of fandom has changed over the years, Gambhir emphasized the importance of taking responsibility in all aspects of life.
“I can’t definitively say if the fan base has grown or anything like that. What I can assert is that we need to be responsible. We must take responsibility in every facet, whether as a franchise or otherwise, because every life is important.”
Gambhir also questioned the appropriateness of holding a road show if the arrangements were not adequately prepared.
“If you were not equipped to hold a road show, then it shouldn’t have been done. It’s as straightforward as that,” he said.
First Published: Jun 6, 2025 8:58 AM IST
