All roads lead to Mohali...

“De Ghumake…,” the official song broadcast between innings break in World Cup 2011, has become a favourite to convey the message to Dhoni's brigade.

Carrying this message are Gujaratis who are flying specially to Punjab to watch arch-rivals India and Pakistan battle it out at Mohali by spending not less than Rs30K to Rs40K. For cricket fanatics from various parts of Gujarat - Kheda, Anand, Ahmedabad, Vadodara - all roads lead to Chandigarh.

While people are getting a chance to witness the historic cricket battle, tour operators are raking in the moolah by offering special packages -- as high as Rs30K for a two-day tour to Chandigarh.
Asit Parikh, a businessman in Ahmedabad, did not want to miss out on an opportunity to see Dhoni's brigade take on Afridi's squad at Mohali. Parikh, who is already in Mohali, is awed by the cricket frenzy that has gripped the air. "It's always fun to watch an India-Pakistan match 'live'. The ambience created by the cricket-passionate crowd is quite amazing. Of course, we are here to cheer the Indian team and see some fine cricket," said Parikh.

Tour operators in Kheda and Anand have sold around 50 travel packages for the India-Pakistan match. "Our clientele doesn't include only rich people. People are willing to spend Rs40K to witness this epic encounter between India and Pakistan. The package includes hotel stay, travel to Mohali stadium, ticket for a box near the pavilion, high tea and return ticket," said Dhaval Shah of Ami Tours and Travels in Anand. 

Another businessman from Ahmedabad, Adit Choksi, is also thrilled to have made it to the 'final before the World Cup final' match at Mohali stadium.

"I wish to see some sensible cricket and a great performance from the Indian team. I hope they play keeping the billion Indian cricket fans in mind," he said.