by Nirmala Carvalho

Fireworks, tears, songs and dances on Saturday night. "Men in blue", the national team players hailed as heroes. India beat Sri Lanka 277 / 4 to 274 / 6.

Mumbai (AsiaNews) - For two days the whole of India has been celebrating after the historic victory against Sri Lanka Cricket in the World Cup 2011. India beat Sri Lanka 277 / 4 to 274 / 6. Moments of collective euphoria, tears of joy and hugs exploded when the team captain Mahendra Singh Indian "Mahi" Dhoni scored the last run in Wankhede Stadium, beating Sri Lanka by six wickets and the team taking home the title. Fireworks lit the night sky Saturday, to proclaim India’s triumph to the world.

All-rounder Yuvraj Singh, was named "man-tournament" for this World Cup 2011. With him, the the most celebrated players were batsman Sachin Tendulkar and captain and wicket-keeper Mahi Dhoni. Mahi is considered by fans and by his teammates as the best captain of the "men in blue", as the Indian national cricket team are known.

In a country where cricket is considered a real religion (Tendulkar is nicknamed the "god"), the victory of "Dhoni's devils" is an absolute joy for everyone. Boys, girls, young and old flocked onto the streets of Mumbai with their faces painted in the colours of the national flag, racing on motorbikes and cars, singing songs.

People have watched the game in clubs, restaurants and pubs. In addition, throughout the country big screens were installed to allow the entire population see the event. According to the Times of India, the citizens of Mumbai alone consumed at least 180 thousand litres of alcohol (1.8 lakh) during the eight hours of playing. The restaurants ordered more than 12 thousand pounds of meat just for the big day. On this occasion cricket  managed to bridge every division of creed and the national team showed the world not only a great team spirit, but a new India based on the unity and integrity. Everyone felt proud to be Indian.

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