IPL 2025 Closing Ceremony to Honor Indian Armed Forces After Operation Sindoor

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is planning something special for the grand finale of IPL 2025—a heartfelt tribute to the Indian Armed Forces. The closing ceremony, set to take place at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on June 3, will honor the bravery and sacrifice of the forces following the success of Operation Sindoor.

Operation Sindoor, which saw India’s armed forces destroy multiple terrorist camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, has been a moment of national pride. In recognition of their heroics, BCCI is dedicating the closing event of IPL to the men and women in uniform. BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia confirmed the news, telling Hindustan Times, “Yes, the IPL 2025 closing ceremony will honor the Indian Armed Forces.” He further told Sportstar, “The Board salutes the bravery, courage, and selfless service of our armed forces, whose heroic efforts under Operation Sindoor continue to protect and inspire the nation. As a tribute, we have decided to dedicate the closing ceremony to the armed forces.” 

The BCCI has already invited the top brass of the military for the occasion. Invitations have been sent to Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan, Chief of Army Staff Upendra Dwivedi, Chief of Navy Staff Dinesh K Tripathi, and Chief of Air Staff AP Singh. 

According to reports, the evening will feature performances by military bands and possibly some of India’s most prominent singers, making it a memorable curtain-closer before the IPL 2025 final gets underway. This season of the IPL has already seen several gestures of respect for the armed forces. Since the resumption of the league after a brief suspension due to the India-Pakistan conflict, the BCCI has had the national anthem played before matches, while stadium screens have lit up with the message: “Thank you, armed forces.” 

The league had been paused for a week following the flare-up between the two countries. But once a ceasefire was agreed upon, the tournament resumed with a slightly adjusted schedule and reduced venues. The final was originally slated for May 26 but has now been pushed to June 3. 

As for the on-field action, the playoffs are just around the corner. Qualifier 1 is set for May 29 in Mullanpur, followed by the Eliminator on May 30 at the same venue. Qualifier 2 and the final will both take place in Ahmedabad. Punjab Kings have already booked their ticket to Qualifier 1 after an impressive win over Mumbai Indians, a result that pushes MI into the Eliminator. 

Now, all eyes are on Royal Challengers Bengaluru. If they beat Lucknow Super Giants on Tuesday, they’ll face Punjab Kings in Qualifier 1. But if they slip up, Gujarat Titans will step in to take on Shreyas Iyer’s side instead. 

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