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A nation's dream comes true with cricket win
On the roads, in homes and office, and in cars and buses, Indians on Saturday were discussing nothing but cricket.
On the roads, in homes and office, and in cars and buses, Indians on Saturday were discussing nothing but cricket - and what a great achievement the Test series victory against Pakistan was.
"Who would have thought..." said autodriver Suresh, turning back to smile at this reporter and almost crashing into the pavement, "who would have thought that we were so good.
"I mean its Pakistan. And we beat them twice, on their fields, before their crowds."
India Friday won the third Test at Rawalpindi to conclude a historic tour of Pakistan, the first in over 14 years. It was the first series win in Pakistan in the 52 years the two countries have been playing each other. It was also India's first overseas series win in 11 years.
When India came through Friday by an innings and 131 runs, it saw an entire nation's dreams, hopes and prayers come true.
"I had prayed," said Jagmohan Khilnani, a shopkeeper in Delhi's bustling old Chandni Chowk bazaar. "Oh, yes, I prayed every day, 'Please god, this time, let us win.' And here we are!"
The sentiment was being echoed across the country as fans burst crackers and partied into Friday night and through Saturday, celebrating not only a historic victory but a brilliant series.
From Kolkata, computer teacher Parna Sengupta laughed as she said: "Oh, we've been up all night. Everyone around me has been up too. For us, it's just too good to be true.
"Not only has India won but the captain is Sourav Ganguly, a Bengali, now India's greatest cricket captain ever."
With this victory, Ganguly has led India to 15 triumphs in 38 tests, one more than former captain Azharuddin.
"Some of the banners here are saying 'The Bengal Tiger has roared'," said Sengupta.
Communications professional Jatin Purohit in Mumbai celebrated in the only way he does - by playing cricket!
"I had a good game early this morning. After all we are celebrating what I think is the greatest game on earth and India are the best in it.
"At least now, we are the best in some sport."
The Indian government has announced a Rs. 50 lakh bonus for the team for a series which saw memorable performances for almost every member, including Virender Sehwag's 309 in the first Test at Multan.
"I am telling you this," said Sunaina Kumar, an advertising professional in Delhi. "From now on, in cricket, its just India."
