Punekars Celebrate India’s Women’s World Cup Triumph with Firecrackers and Cheers Despite Rain
Pune, 3rd November 2025: Intermittent rain and traffic jams could not dampen Pune’s cricket fever on Sunday as fans travelled to Navi Mumbai and gathered across the city to celebrate India’s historic ICC Women’s World Cup 2025 victory.
Among those who reached DY Patil Stadium hours before the match began was Nilesh Jadhav, a Pune resident who arrived around 11 am. “Even when the rain stopped play, no one lost their spirit,” he said. “People were singing, waving flags, and chanting for Team India while the pitch was covered. The excitement was electric.”
While thousands watched the action live in Navi Mumbai, Pune too turned festive. Sports bars, malls, and restaurants turned into mini stadiums, while even electronics showrooms had all their TVs tuned in, drawing crowds of shoppers and staff cheering together.
At the Aeromall near the airport, a mall employee, described the atmosphere as unforgettable. “Every floor echoed with cheers. Strangers were celebrating together — that’s how powerful cricket is in India,” he said.
Veteran coach Subhash Dhavale of the Pune Women’s Cricket Association said the moment was emotional for those who have seen women’s cricket grow over decades. “I’ve coached the Maharashtra women’s team for ten years. To see India lift the World Cup is a dream fulfilled,” he said. “Women’s cricket started in 1972, and it took years of dedication from players and coaches to reach this level. The game truly began gaining traction around 2007–08, and now it’s at its peak.”
As India sealed the title, fireworks lit up Pune’s skyline. People burst firecrackers in several areas, including Kothrud, Aundh, Kasba Peth, Baner, and Camp, celebrating deep into the night. Streets echoed with cheers, songs, and the sound of victory as Punekars proudly hailed the women who brought home the nation’s first-ever ODI World Cup.
