WATCH: Shankar Mahadevan releases heartfelt musical tribute to armed forces ahead of IPL 2025 Final

The highly anticipated IPL 2025 Final between Punjab Kings (PBKS) and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) at the Narendra Modi Stadium got under way with a rousing and emotional tribute to the Indian Armed Forces. The ceremonious opening ceremony, brimming with emotion and patriotism, started on a somber yet resounding note ahead of the high-voltage cricketing action.

Renowned singer and composer Shankar Mahadevan was the lead performer for the tribute and wowed the immense audience with a host of patriotic songs. His memorable performance captured the hearts of fans around the world when the audience spontaneously applauded on their feet, and you could feel the people feeling reverence and unity in the stands. And then, to make the musical tribute even more special, Mahadevan was joined by his two sons, Siddharth and Shivam Mahadevan, in a generational performance in honor of our nation’s selfless defenders.

Adding to the poignancy, veteran cricket commentator Harsha Bhogle Harsha Bhogle addressed the audience in his wonderful and emotional style. Bhogle spoke about the Armed Forces and their obligations of selfless service, sacrifice, and a lifetime of steadfast resolve to our warriors. Whereas Bhogle talked, there was a pre-recorded emotional montage that had run of the Indian Army and their sacrifice and dedication to India had covered the big screen; it was a surreal visual for most in the crowd, and you could see the crowd collectively moved.

A Night to Remember

The powerful tribute reached a climax as the Indian tricolor was unfurled to chants of “Jai Hind,” marked by a dazzling choreographed performance by a troupe of dancers attired in theme costumes. Their elegant yet high-spirited movements captured the essence of oneness and sacrifice, hailing the true heroes who stand sentinel over the country's sovereignty.

Watch the video here

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When the tribute was complete, the celebration ascended to a higher level with exciting performances of Bollywood stars like Shah Rukh Khan and Disha Patani, Varun Dhawan and Shreya Ghoshal, Karan Aujla, and others. Their electric performances lit the stadium aglow, all the while presenting glamour and gratitude and remembering this moment of the IPL and the ability to present Bollywood, sport, and acknowledgments of our armed forces in the same night in the same spectacular moment.