Written by Shruti Sharma
In a heartfelt gesture, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has announced that the closing ceremony of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 will pay a special tribute to the Indian Armed Forces. The grand event is scheduled to take place on June 3 at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, following the successful Operation Sindoor.
The decision was made in light of the Indian Armed Forces’ recent operation, which led to the destruction of multiple terrorist camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). The operation was widely regarded as a significant step in counter-terrorism efforts.
Sources also revealed that invitations have been extended to Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan, Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi, Navy Chief Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi, and Air Chief Marshal AP Singh. The ceremony will feature military band performances and celebrity singers, aiming to offer a grand salute to the bravery and sacrifice of the armed forces.
“We are grateful for the constant bravery, courage, and service of our armed forces. The IPL 2025 closing ceremony will be a tribute to their efforts under Operation Sindoor,” a BCCI official stated.
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Earlier in the season, IPL 2025 was suspended for a week following a terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir, which claimed the lives of 26 tourists. Amid rising tensions at the border, the tournament resumed only after a ceasefire was declared. Upon resumption, the BCCI had already initiated tributes — players sang the national anthem before matches, and “Thank you, armed forces” messages were displayed on giant screens at stadiums.
This is not the first time the BCCI has honored the armed forces. In 2019, following the Pulwama attack in which 44 CRPF personnel were killed, the board pledged Rs. 20 crore for the welfare of the armed forces and included military band performances in the opening ceremony.
IPL 2025 Playoff Schedule
Qualifier 1: May 29 – Mullanpur
Eliminator: May 30 – Mullanpur
Qualifier 2: Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad
Final: June 3 – Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad
Punjab Kings have confirmed their place in Qualifier 1 after defeating Mumbai Indians in Jaipur, pushing the five-time champions into the Eliminator. Royal Challengers Bengaluru will join Punjab in Qualifier 1 if they defeat Lucknow Super Kings. If not, Gujarat Titans will take on Punjab Kings on May 29.
The stage is set for a thrilling cricket finale — one that will also stand as a powerful symbol of national pride and gratitude.
