The Vibrant Culture of Fans at Mohali’s PCA Stadium

The Punjab Cricket Association (PCA) IS Bindra Stadium in Mohali, near Chandigarh, is one of India’s coolest cricket stadiums, where fans create a super fun and lively atmosphere during matches. Whether it’s cheering for Punjab Kings in the Indian Premier League (IPL) or Team India in a World Cup game, the 26,000 fans at PCA Stadium make every match feel like a big party!

If you’re a 10-year-old who loves cricket, this guide will tell you all about the vibrant fan culture at Mohali’s PCA Stadium in a way that’s easy to understand. Let’s dive into the exciting world of Mohali’s cricket fans!

What Is PCA Stadium?

The PCA Stadium, built in 1993, is a world-class cricket ground in Mohali, Punjab, just outside Chandigarh. It’s named after Inderjit Singh Bindra, a cricket boss who helped make it awesome. With a seating capacity of about 26,950, it’s smaller than stadiums like Eden Gardens but feels huge because of its loud, passionate fans. The stadium has hosted epic matches, like the 2011 World Cup semi-final between India and Pakistan, and is home to the Punjab Kings in the IPL. Its bouncy pitch and modern features, like low floodlights to avoid planes from the nearby airport, make it special. But what really makes PCA Stadium shine is its fans!

• Fun Fact: The stadium’s unique roof looks like a flying saucer, making it one of India’s coolest-looking grounds
• For Kids: Imagine a giant playground where thousands of people cheer for cricket stars like Virat Kohli!

Why Mohali Fans Are So Special

Mohali’s fans are known for their energy, love for cricket, and Punjabi spirit. They bring music, dance, and loud cheers to every match, turning PCA Stadium into a carnival. Whether it’s an IPL game or an international match, the fans make it unforgettable with their colorful banners, chants, and non-stop excitement. Here’s why their culture is so vibrant:

1. Loud and Proud Punjabi Cheers

Punjabi fans are super loud and full of energy! At PCA Stadium, they chant “Punjab, Punjab!” or “India, India!” during matches. For IPL games, you’ll hear “Kings XI Punjab!” or “PBKS!” (Punjab Kings’ nickname). They clap, whistle, and shout for every boundary or wicket, making the stadium feel alive. Kids love joining in because it’s like cheering at a school event but way bigger!

• Example: During the 2011 World Cup semi-final against Pakistan, fans cheered so loud for Sachin Tendulkar’s 85 runs that it felt like the ground was shaking
• For Kids: Picture shouting for your favorite superhero with thousands of friends—that’s what Mohali fans do!

2. Dancing and Dhol Music

Punjab is famous for bhangra, a lively dance with lots of jumping and clapping. At PCA Stadium, fans bring this vibe by dancing in the stands, especially during IPL matches. Some even play dhol (a big drum) to pump up the crowd. When Punjab Kings hit a six, you’ll see fans doing bhangra moves, waving flags, and having fun. It’s like a dance party at a cricket match!

• Fun Fact: During the 2016 T20 World Cup, fans danced to dhol beats when Virat Kohli scored 82 not out against Australia
• For Kids: Imagine dancing with your friends to loud drum music while watching cricket—it’s super fun!

3. Colorful Banners and Face Paint

Mohali fans love showing their team spirit with colorful banners and face paint. You’ll see signs saying “Go Punjab Kings!” or “We Love Virat!” painted in bright colors like blue, red, and yellow. Kids and grown-ups paint their faces with India’s flag or Punjab Kings’ logo, making the stands look like a rainbow. These decorations make PCA Stadium a happy, vibrant place.

• Example: In IPL matches, fans hold up banners for players like KL Rahul, who played for Punjab Kings, cheering every big shot.
• For Kids: Think of making a big poster for your favorite player and painting your face like a superhero fan!

4. Fan Zones and Fun Activities

PCA Stadium has special fan zones where kids and families can have extra fun. These areas have games, photo booths, and mascot meet-and-greets (like the Punjab Kings’ lion mascot). There are also interactive displays where you can try batting or bowling games. During IPL matches, fan zones play music and give out team flags, making it a party for everyone.

• Fun Fact: The fan zones at PCA Stadium were a hit during the 2016 T20 World Cup, with kids taking selfies with the Punjab Kings mascot
• For Kids: Picture a playground at the stadium with games and a cool lion mascot to high-five!

5. Singing and Chanting Together

Mohali fans love singing songs to cheer their team. During IPL games, they sing “Sweet Caroline” or Bollywood songs like “Chak De India” to support Punjab Kings. When India plays, fans chant players’ names, like “Sachin, Sachin!” or “Kohli, Kohli!” These songs make everyone feel like part of a big cricket family.

• Example: In 2007, fans sang for Yuvraj Singh when he hit six sixes in an over against England at PCA Stadium during the T20 World Cup
• For Kids: Imagine singing your favorite song with thousands of people while watching a cricket match!

Famous Matches and Fan Moments at PCA Stadium

The fans at PCA Stadium have made many matches unforgettable. Here are some epic moments where their energy shined:

2011 World Cup Semi-Final: India vs. Pakistan

On March 30, 2011, PCA Stadium hosted the World Cup semi-final between India and Pakistan. The 26,000 fans were super loud, cheering for Sachin Tendulkar’s 85 runs as India won by 29 runs. The crowd waved Indian flags, sang songs, and even welcomed Pakistan fans, showing sportsmanship. It was a historic match, with even the Prime Ministers of both countries watching

• For Kids: Picture a huge crowd cheering like it’s a school festival, helping India win a big game!

2016 T20 World Cup: Virat Kohli’s Masterclass

In the 2016 T20 World Cup, India faced Australia at PCA Stadium. Virat Kohli scored 82 not out, chasing a tough target, and the fans went wild! They danced, waved banners, and chanted “Kohli, Kohli!” as India won. The floodlights and lively crowd made it a night to remember.

• For Kids: Imagine cheering for a superhero hitting big shots while everyone dances around you!

Yuvraj Singh’s Six Sixes (2007)

In the 2007 T20 World Cup, Yuvraj Singh hit six sixes in one over against England at PCA Stadium. The Mohali fans roared for every ball that flew into the stands, creating a crazy atmosphere. They sang and danced, making it one of the loudest moments in the stadium’s history.

• For Kids: Think of Yuvraj hitting the ball out of the park six times while fans shout like it’s a party!

Rohit Sharma’s Double Century (2017)

In 2017, Rohit Sharma scored an unbeaten 208 in an ODI against Sri Lanka at PCA Stadium, his third ODI double century. The fans cheered every boundary, waving banners and painting their faces. Their energy helped Rohit keep going, making it a record-breaking day.

• For Kids: Picture fans cheering for a player scoring tons of runs, like getting a high score in a video game!

How Fans Make PCA Stadium Special

Mohali’s fans add magic to PCA Stadium in many ways:

1. Welcoming Everyone

PCA Stadium fans are friendly and welcome visitors from all over India and the world. During the 2011 India vs. Pakistan match, they cheered for both teams, showing cricket brings people together. The stadium has ramps and seats for people with disabilities, so everyone can join the fun.

• For Kids: Imagine making new friends at a match, all cheering together like a big team!

2. Food and Drinks Add to the Fun

Fans love eating tasty snacks at PCA Stadium, like vada pav, chicken tikka, and lassi (a sweet yogurt drink). Food stalls near the stands serve Punjabi treats, and kids can grab popcorn or ice cream. Eating while cheering makes the match feel like a picnic!

• Fun Fact: During IPL matches, food stalls sell out of spicy chicken tikka because fans love it
• For Kids: Picture eating yummy snacks like at a fair while watching cricket!

3. Punjab’s Cricket Love

Punjab loves cricket, and Mohali fans show it with their passion. The PCA Academy nearby trains young players, and fans cheer for local stars like Arshdeep Singh, who plays for Punjab Kings and India. This love inspires kids to play cricket and dream of playing at PCA Stadium.

• For Kids: Think of Mohali as a place where everyone loves cricket as much as you do!

4. Modern Stadium Features

PCA Stadium’s cool features make it great for fans:

• Clear Views: The cantilever roof means no pillars block your view of the game.

• Floodlights: Low floodlights let you watch night matches, like IPL games, under bright lights.

• Food Stalls: Tons of stalls sell snacks, so you’re never hungry.

• Sports Museum: A museum in the stadium shows cricket history, like Sachin’s records.

• For Kids: Imagine a stadium where you can see every shot clearly and visit a cricket museum!

Tips for Kids Visiting PCA Stadium

If you’re going to PCA Stadium, here’s how to enjoy the fan culture:

• Get There Early: Arrive 2-3 hours before the match to grab snacks and join fan zones.

• Bring a Banner: Make a colorful sign saying “Go Punjab Kings!” or “India Rocks!” to wave in the stands.

• Learn Chants: Practice “PBKS!” or “India, India!” to join the crowd.

• Wear Team Colors: Wear a Punjab Kings jersey or India’s blue kit to feel like part of the team.

• Try Foods: Grab puchkas or lassi from stalls near the main gates.

• Check Tickets: Ask a parent to buy tickets on insider.in for IPL matches (like Punjab Kings vs. RCB on March 22, 2025).

• Fun Fact: Tickets for IPL matches at PCA Stadium can sell out fast, so book early

How Mohali Fans Shape Cricket’s Future

The vibrant fan culture at PCA Stadium helps cricket grow:

• Inspiring Kids: Fans cheering for stars like Yuvraj Singh inspire kids to play cricket and join academies.

• Boosting IPL: The loud crowd makes Punjab Kings matches exciting, growing the IPL’s popularity.

• Global Fame: Matches like the 2011 World Cup semi-final put Mohali on the world map, attracting fans for the 2026 T20 World Cup.

• For Kids: Imagine your cheers helping new cricket stars like Arshdeep Singh become famous!

Other Fun Things Near PCA Stadium

After the match, check out these cool places near Mohali:

• Rock Garden, Chandigarh: A park with sculptures made from recycled stuff, just 15 minutes away.

• Sukhna Lake: A calm lake for boating, perfect for relaxing after a loud match.

• Elante Mall: A big mall with food courts and games, great for kids.

• For Kids: Picture visiting a fun park or lake after cheering at the stadium!

Conclusion

The fan culture at Mohali’s PCA Stadium is like a big, colorful cricket party! With 26,950 fans cheering, dancing bhangra, waving banners, and singing for Punjab Kings or Team India, every match feels electric. From the 2011 World Cup semi-final to Yuvraj Singh’s six sixes in 2007 and Virat Kohli’s 2016 heroics, fans have made history at PCA Stadium.

Their loud chants, face paint, and love for snacks like vada pav and lassi create a vibrant atmosphere. The stadium’s clear views, fan zones, and nearby PCA Academy inspire kids to love cricket. Whether you’re visiting for an IPL match, joining the chants, or eating tasty food, Mohali’s fans make PCA Stadium unforgettable. So, grab a banner, cheer loud, and enjoy the vibrant culture at Mohali’s PCA Stadium!