The 18th season of the Indian Premier League (IPL) — the world’s most lucrative cricket league — has wrapped up in style, with Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) finally ending their 17-year wait to lift the prestigious trophy.
But have you ever wondered what this glittering trophy is made of, how much it costs, or who gets to keep it? Here’s everything you need to know.
What Is the IPL Trophy Worth?
With cricketers earning salaries in crores and each franchise having a purse of ₹120 crore, it’s no surprise that the IPL operates at a grand scale. The winner of the tournament takes home ₹20 crore in prize money — but what about the trophy itself?
Although the BCCI has not officially disclosed the cost, reports suggest that the trophy is made of gold and silver, with an estimated value of ₹30 to ₹50 lakh. It’s not just a symbol of victory — it’s a blend of tradition, craftsmanship, and prestige.
A Sanskrit Motto With a Deeper Meaning
The IPL trophy also carries a special message in Sanskrit:
“Yatra Pratibha Avasara Prapnotihi,” which translates to “Where talent meets opportunity.”
This perfectly reflects the league’s mission — to provide a global platform for emerging talent and allow players to shine in front of millions.
Who Keeps the Trophy?
While the trophy is handed over to the winning captain on the final night, the original does not remain with the team. After the celebrations, the BCCI reclaims the trophy, and the winning franchise receives a replica for their collection.
Additionally, the name of each year’s champion is engraved on the base of the original trophy using a metal sticker, making it a running record of IPL history.
The IPL trophy isn’t just a shining piece of silverware — it represents ambition, excellence, and the culmination of months of hard-fought cricket.
