IPL 2025 Kicks Off With Star-Studded Opening At Eden Gardens

Photo: X

KOLKATA (ANI)- The 18th edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL), one of the world’s most popular T20 cricket leagues, commenced with a grand opening ceremony at Eden Gardens in Kolkata. The event blended cricket with Bollywood glamour as superstar Shah Rukh Khan set the tone for the night, captivating the packed stadium with his charisma.

Shah Rukh Khan, co-owner of Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), opened the ceremony with an energetic speech, highlighting the IPL’s transformation into a “movement, a celebration of sports, and a festival of passion.” He introduced a star-studded lineup, including singer Shreya Ghoshal, Punjabi artist Karan Aujla, and Bollywood actress Disha Patani.

Shreya Ghoshal mesmerized the audience with ‘Mera Dholna’ and ‘Kar Har Maidan Fateh,’ concluding with a patriotic rendition of ‘Vande Mataram.’ Karan Aujla brought Punjabi beats, while Disha Patani set the stage on fire with her electrifying dance.

A standout moment was Shah Rukh Khan inviting former RCB captain Virat Kohli on stage to dance to ‘Jhoome Jo Pathaan.’ The stadium erupted in ‘Kohli Kohli’ chants as SRK praised him as the “GOAT (Greatest of All Time) of IPL,” recognizing his loyalty to RCB since the league’s inception. Kohli’s dance with SRK created an electrifying moment that quickly went viral.

Before this, KKR’s Rinku Singh danced with SRK to ‘Lutt Putt Gaya’ from ‘Dunki,’ leaving Kohli in splits.

Following the entertainment spectacle, focus shifted to the much-anticipated season opener between Kolkata Knight Riders and Royal Challengers Bengaluru.

Earlier, Shah Rukh Khan visited the KKR dressing room, personally greeting each player and offering words of encouragement. In a video shared by KKR’s official Instagram handle, he welcomed new captain Ajinkya Rahane and motivated the squad.

Both teams entered the season with fresh leadership. Ajinkya Rahane leads KKR, while Rajat Patidar takes charge of RCB. In their first meet, KKR was beaten.

Also Read:- India Society of Worcester’s Holi Lights Up Boston With Dance And Music