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The Indian Premier League (IPL), cricket’s most glamorous and widely watched franchise tournament, is gearing up for its 18th season in 2025. With a staggering valuation of $10.7 billion, the IPL stands as the world’s second-most lucrative sports league, trailing only the NFL ($18 billion). This annual cricketing carnival, featuring ten fiercely competitive teams, kicks off on Saturday, March 22, and will thrill fans for over two months, culminating in the final on May 25.
But before the first ball is bowled, the league’s iconic Opening Ceremony promises to set the stage ablaze with A-list performances. Here’s your complete guide to the spectacle—from when and where to watch to the surprises in store.
When and Where to Catch the IPL 2025 Opening Ceremony
The IPL 2025 Opening Ceremony will light up Eden Gardens in Kolkata on March 22, marking the start of the tournament’s 18th edition. Known as the “Mecca of Indian Cricket,” the iconic venue has hosted countless historic matches and will now welcome fans for an evening of entertainment and celebration. The ceremony precedes the season’s first clash between defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB).
Global timings for fans worldwide
The event begins at 6:00 PM IST (Indian Standard Time). For international audiences:
EST (Eastern Standard Time): 8:30 AM
CST (Central Standard Time): 7:30 AM
MST (Mountain Standard Time): 6:30 AM
PST (Pacific Standard Time): 5:30 AM
Plan your alarms—this is a global party you won’t want to miss!
Star-studded performances: Who’s taking the stage?
This year’s ceremony boasts a dazzling lineup blending Bollywood glamour and musical brilliance. Leading the charge is Disha Patani, whose electrifying dance moves are sure to set social media ablaze. Joining her is melody queen Shreya Ghoshal, whose soulful vocals have defined countless Bollywood classics. Adding a dash of Punjabi flair is Karan Aujla, the chart-topping singer-rapper known for his infectious beats. Expect fireworks—both literal and metaphorical!
How to tune in live
Television Broadcast:
Catch the ceremony live on the Star Sports Network (available in multiple regional languages).
Online Streaming:
JioCinema: Free for Jio users.
Disney+ Hotstar: Subscription-based access for HD quality.
Pro tip: Bookmark these platforms early to avoid last-minute buffering woes!
Why this year’s ceremony matters
Beyond the glitz, the Opening Ceremony symbolizes the unity and passion of cricket fans worldwide. With Eden Gardens’ 68,000-seat capacity expected to be packed, the energy will be palpable. For players, it’s a reminder of the stakes—the journey to lift the coveted IPL 2025 trophy begins here.
As the countdown begins, one thing’s certain: the IPL 2025 Opening Ceremony will blend cricket, culture, and celebrity into an unforgettable prelude to the season. Grab your snacks, pick your screen, and get ready—cricket fever is about to hit peak decibels!
