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The Indian Premier League (IPL) has become synonymous with high-octane cricket, glitz, and glamour, and the opening ceremony of IPL 2025 at the iconic Eden Gardens in Kolkata was no exception. This year, the event was graced by the presence of notable figures such as ICC Chairman Jay Shah, former Indian cricket captain Sourav Ganguly, and legendary cricketer Jhulan Goswami, who had the honour of ringing the bell to signal the start of this much-anticipated tournament.
A grand opening: The stage is set
The IPL 2025 opening ceremony kicked off on March 22, 2025, marking the beginning of the 18th edition of this prestigious tournament. The atmosphere at Eden Gardens was electric, with fans eagerly awaiting a night filled with entertainment and cricketing action. The ceremony was not just about cricket; it was a celebration of Indian culture and entertainment, showcasing Bollywood’s finest talents alongside cricketing legends.
Shah, who has been instrumental in shaping the future of cricket in India and globally, took center stage to deliver an inspiring speech. His leadership as ICC Chairman has been pivotal in promoting cricket across nations, and his presence at the ceremony underscored the importance of this event in the cricketing calendar. Shah emphasized the spirit of sportsmanship and unity that IPL represents, bringing together fans from diverse backgrounds to celebrate their love for cricket.
Jay Shah, Sourav Ganguly and Jhulan Goswami ring the bell announcing IPL 2025
Ganguly, revered as one of India’s greatest captains, also played a significant role in the ceremony. His journey from a player to a key figure in cricket administration serves as an inspiration for many aspiring cricketers. Ganguly’s charisma and passion for the game resonated with fans as he shared anecdotes from his playing days and expressed his excitement for the tournament ahead.
Goswami, a trailblazer in women’s cricket and an icon for aspiring female cricketers, added another layer of significance to the event. By ringing the bell alongside Shah and Ganguly, she symbolized the growing recognition and support for women’s cricket in India. Her presence highlighted the strides made towards inclusivity within the sport.
Here’s the video:
𝐈𝐂𝐘𝐌𝐈: 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐬𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐝 𝐨𝐟 𝐜𝐫𝐢𝐜𝐤𝐞𝐭’𝐬 𝐛𝐢𝐠𝐠𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐟𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐚𝐥 🔔
ICC Chairman Mr. Jay Shah, former Indian greats Jhulan Goswami and Sourav Ganguly ring the bell at the iconic Eden Gardens to get #TATAIPL 18 underway!#KKRvRCB | @JayShah | @SGanguly99 |… pic.twitter.com/DZg5GvGKYh
— IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) March 22, 2025
Also WATCH: Virat Kohli dances to ‘Jhoome Jo Pathaan’ with Shah Rukh Khan at IPL 2025 opening ceremony
A star-studded extravaganza
The opening ceremony featured an array of performances that captivated audiences both in-stadium and at home. Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan, co-owner of Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), set the tone with a charismatic speech that had fans roaring with excitement. His ability to connect with audiences transcends cricket; he embodies the cultural fabric of India.
Following SRK’s electrifying introduction, renowned singer Shreya Ghoshal took to the stage. Her melodious voice enchanted spectators as she performed soulful renditions that paid tribute to each IPL franchise. Shreya’s performance was not just a musical act; it was an emotional connection that resonated deeply with fans who have followed their teams through thick and thin.
Disha Patani added a touch of glamour with her stunning dance performance. Her energy lit up the stage and showcased how IPL is not just about cricket but also about entertainment that appeals to a broader audience. Punjabi sensation Karan Aujla rounded off the evening with his vibrant performance, ensuring that fans were thoroughly entertained before the first match commenced.
As the ceremony concluded, all eyes turned toward the field where Kolkata Knight Riders face off against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in what promised to be an exhilarating match. With both teams boasting star-studded line-ups, including cricketing icons like Virat Kohli and Andre Russell, anticipation reached fever pitch.
