IPL 2025 Opening Ceremony: Performers, venue, live streaming & key highlights

The 18th edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) is set to begin with a grand opening ceremony at Kolkata’s iconic Eden Gardens on Saturday, March 22. For the first time ever, IPL 2025 will feature opening ceremonies at all 13 venues, turning the tournament into a season-long celebration.

Star-studded performances on opening night

The curtain-raiser event in Kolkata will kick off at 6 PM IST and promises a dazzling mix of music, dance, and visual spectacles, including laser shows and cultural showcases. Confirmed performers include Disha Patani, Shreya Ghoshal, and Karan Aujla. Arijit Singh, Varun Dhawan, and Shraddha Kapoor are also expected to take the stage, while global music band OneRepublic has reportedly been approached for a special act.

The event will also pay tribute to the cultural richness of West Bengal. Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and other dignitaries are likely to attend the opening ceremony.

Host city & match schedule

As per IPL tradition, the home ground of the defending champions hosts the season opener and final. With Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) clinching the title last year, Eden Gardens has been chosen to host the opening ceremony, tournament opener, and the final match on May 25.

Following the ceremony, KKR will take on Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in the first match of the season. Both teams enter IPL 2025 with new leadership—Ajinkya Rahane for KKR and Rajat Patidar for RCB.

Where to watch the IPL 2025 opening ceremony?

The event will be broadcast live on multiple Star Sports channels, including Star Sports 1, Star Sports 1 HD, Star Sports 1 Hindi, Star Sports 2, Star Sports Khel, and Star Sports 3. Viewers can also stream the event live on JioStar starting at 6 PM IST.

With star-studded performances and a historic format twist, the IPL 2025 opening night is set to deliver an unforgettable start to the cricketing spectacle.