Moments before the highly anticipated IPL 2025 final between Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Punjab Kings (PBKS), the Indian Premier League paid a heartfelt tribute to the Indian Armed Forces for their valour during Operation Sindoor. The closing ceremony at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad opened with a powerful video montage showcasing the bravery and sacrifices made by Indian soldiers in the recent India-Pakistan conflict.
As the montage played on the giant stadium screen, a packed crowd rose in unison, waving Indian flags and applauding the tribute. The atmosphere turned emotional as the crowd responded with chants of “Bharat Mata Ki Jai.”
Following the video, renowned Indian singer Shankar Mahadevan took the stage and delivered a soul-stirring musical performance. Singing patriotic numbers like “Main rahu ya na rahu, Bharat yeh rehna chahiye” and “Maa tujhe salaam,” Mahadevan struck a chord with both fans and players alike. Other artists also joined in, turning the ceremony into a celebration of national pride and unity.
This unique tribute not only honoured the spirit of the Indian Armed Forces but also reminded everyone of the sacrifices that protect the nation—blending the power of sport with patriotism on cricket’s grandest stage.
