Some celebrations go beyond stadiums as they become part of a nation's story. After leading India to glory in the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026, captain Suryakumar Yadav marked the victory in a truly special way.
With the trophy in hand, he posed for photographs at the stunning Adalaj Stepwell, also known as Adalaj Ni Vav, in Gandhinagar.
India had sealed the title with a dominant 96-run win over New Zealand at the iconic Narendra Modi Stadium and the mood across Gujarat quickly turned festive.
Interestingly, Adalaj Stepwell was the same venue where a pre-final trophy photoshoot had taken place before India's heartbreaking loss to Australia in the 2023 ODI World Cup final. This time, however, the visit carried joy, pride and a sense of redemption.
Check out the pics:
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As Suryakumar Yadav arrived with the trophy, huge crowds gathered around the monument and nearby streets. Fans cheered loudly, chanted 'India, India', waved flags and even climbed terraces and walls just to catch a glimpse of their captain and the silverware. The historic site turned into a sea of celebration.
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Security was tightened due to the large turnout but the festive spirit never slowed. Supporters kept cheering as Surya smiled, waved back and posed for pictures inside the monument complex.
Here is why Adalaj Stepwell is special:
Adalaj Ni Vav is one of Gujarat's most famous heritage landmarks and attracts visitors from across India and around the world. Located about 18 kilometres from Ahmedabad, the stepwell was built in 1499 by Queen Rudabai, wife of Vaghela ruler Rana Veer Singh.
The five-storey structure is admired for its detailed carvings and unique Indo-Islamic architecture. In medieval times, it served as a water source and resting place for travellers. Today, its grand pillars, sculpted walls and elegant galleries make it one of the region's most treasured historical attractions.
Under Suryakumar Yadav's leadership, India defeated a New Zealand side captained by Mitchell Santner to retain the T20 World Cup title. The triumph marked multiple historic achievements for Indian cricket.
India became the first team to win a men's T20 World Cup on the home soil. They also became the first side to defend the title after previously winning it in 2024. Most remarkably, India became the first team to win the tournament three times - in 2007, 2024 and now 2026.
The celebrations didn't stop there.
Following the historic win, Suryakumar Yadav visited the Hanuman Temple Ahmedabad along with head coach Gautam Gambhir and International Cricket Council chairman Jay Shah. The trio offered prayers and sought blessings while holding the prestigious trophy, a quiet, heartfelt moment after days of high-pressure cricket.
India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi also congratulated the team for their achievement. He praised the players for their dedication, confidence and relentless effort throughout the tournament, calling the victory a proud moment for the entire nation.
For fans, it wasn't just about lifting a trophy, it was about memories made at historic places, emotional moments of gratitude and a team that delivered glory at home.