A billion Indians launched the world's biggest party on Saturday, as their adored national team lifted the cricket World Cup, triggering celebrations and firework displays across the country. From the megacities of Mumbai, Kolkata and New Delhi to India's rural heartland, where entire villages had gathered around television sets to watch the final, this cricket-obsessed nation went into delirious meltdown.

Motorbikes with pillion passengers waving the saffron, white and green Indian Tricolour roared up and down Mumbai's sweeping Marine Drive promenade, weaving in and out of the traffic, as cars hooted their horns in accompaniment. In the streets of the country's financial capital, people danced and banged drums, cheered on by entire families who had come out onto their balconies and rooftops to watch the party unfold, chanting India's slogan. The victory was especially sweet for the people of Mumbai.

Published Date : Sunday, 3/4/2011 5:06 PM IST