Thanks from a billion plus Indians

Dedication to the cause,the strength of character to stay the course and astute leadership have finally converted the potential of a talented group of youngsters,the experience of veterans and the hard work of the coach and his staff,into the reality of becoming world champions. All of you truly deserve the thanks of a billion plus Indians today.

The Prime Minister said the hard work and the effort of M S Dhoni and his men have been rewarded.

I join the nation in congratulating the Indian cricket team on their victory. The hard work and the effort of M S Dhoni and his men have been rewarded. They have shown the world that India is at the top of the game of cricket, Singh said soon after watching the Indian skipper hitting the winning stroke with a huge six.

UPA Chairperson Sonia Gandhi said the victory of the Indian team will be etched in gold for generations to come. My heartiest congratulations to Team India,you have raised the level of national pride, Sonia said in a message.

Later in the night,the Congress president came out on the streets of Delhi and joined thousands of ecstatic fans in celebrating Indias win. She came out of her Sports Utility Vehicle near the busy ITO crossing at around 11 pm,waved the national flag,shook hands with the fans,and displayed victory and thumbs-up signs,drawing lusty cheers. The fans responded to her by singing India8230;..India and Vande Mataram in a rhythmic manner.

Guarded by Special Protection Group personnel,Sonia was in the midst of the fans for about 20 minutes before she drove off.

Leader of the Opposition in Lok Sabha Sushma Swaraj said our team has done us proud. Senior BJP leader L K Advani said: It is a wonderful day and a wonderful occasion for the nation. Not because we have won a major tournament for the second time,28 years after we won it first,but basically because the kind of enthusiasm that is there in the country for cricket and the manner in which cricket victory arouses sentiments of patriotism and nationalism.

Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi said kudos to team India for the pride they have brought to all of us. Let us keep up this spirit of determination.

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah described the win as a stunning victory.

Railway Minister Mamata Banerjee said the Indian cricket team have conquered the world8230;The way our boys played,it proves Indians can use their mind without fear and hold their heads high. She asked the government to declare a national holiday to mark the victory.