The Indian Premier League (IPL) Season 18 final will be played today between Royal Challengers Bangalore and Punjab Kings at the prestigious Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium in Ahmedabad.
Sports News: The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 is reaching its culmination, and today cricket enthusiasts will not only witness a thrilling final match but also a historic and emotional 'Tribute Ceremony' beforehand. This closing ceremony will be held at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, starting at 6 PM, just before the final match between Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) and Punjab Kings (PBKS).
Closing Ceremony, Rebranded as a 'Tribute Ceremony': Why the New Name?
The IPL 2025 closing ceremony has been renamed from the traditional Closing Ceremony to a Tribute Ceremony. The primary reason is 'Operation Sindur'. Following a terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Kashmir on April 22, 2025, the Indian Army launched airstrikes on terrorist camps located in Pakistan. This closing ceremony is dedicated to honoring the bravery and sacrifice of the Indian Armed Forces in this operation.
According to BCCI sources, we have decided to dedicate this major cricket event to the valor and sacrifice of the Indian Army. It will not just be an entertainment program but a symbol of patriotism.
Who Will Pay Tribute to the Bravehearts Through Music?
Renowned Indian singer Shankar Mahadevan will perform at the ceremony. He will be joined by his two sons, Siddharth Mahadevan and Shivam Mahadevan. This is the first time a musical family will be a part of an IPL closing ceremony together. The trio will present patriotic songs, including 'Vande Mataram', 'Satyameva Jayate', and a special composition dedicated to the army.
Sources suggest that this performance will also include a special video tribute showcasing visuals from Operation Sindur and highlighting the bravery of the Indian Army personnel.
When and Where to Watch the Closing Ceremony?
- Time: 6 PM to 7 PM
- Venue: Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad
- Live Telecast: Star Sports Network
- Live Streaming: Jio Cinema app and website (in Hindi, English, and regional languages)
- The toss for the final match will be at 7 PM, and the first ball will be bowled at 7:30 PM.
A Wave of Emotion Before the Match
This kind of tribute before an IPL final is unprecedented. This event will not only honor the nation's soldiers but also remind players and spectators that the country comes first. Notably, both teams playing the final, RCB and Punjab Kings, have never won an IPL title. This match is therefore history-making. The 'Tribute Ceremony' will make this historic match even more memorable.
Highlights of the Ceremony:
- Light and Sound Show: A spectacular opening act featuring light projections and drum beats showcasing the bravery of the army.
- Special Tableau: A tableau depicting Operation Sindur will be paraded around the ground, visually narrating the valor of the army personnel.
- Drone Show: For the first time in an IPL closing ceremony, a drone show will be held, displaying the Indian flag and the symbol of the Indian Army in the sky.
- Honoring Families of Bravehearts: Families of some martyred soldiers will be invited on stage and honored by the players.
RCB, captained by Rajat Patidar, reached the final after defeating Punjab in Qualifier 1. PBKS, led by Shreyas Iyer, secured their place in the final by defeating Mumbai Indians. Both teams will aim for their first-ever trophy.
