The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has announced a grand tribute to the Indian Armed Forces during the closing ceremony of the IPL 2025 final, set to take place at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on June 3.
This special gesture comes in recognition of the armed forces’ bravery and successful execution of Operation Sindoor, which followed the tragic Pahalgam terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir that claimed 26 civilian lives.
Operation Sindoor and IPL’s Response
Operation Sindoor was launched by the Indian Armed Forces as a precise strike against terrorist hideouts in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, destroying multiple targets in retaliation for the Pahalgam attack.
The operation resulted in the elimination of around 100 terrorists across nine facilities, and was widely lauded for its precision and effectiveness.
The aftermath of the operation led to heightened tensions between India and Pakistan, causing the IPL 2025 season to be suspended for a week.
The tournament resumed only after a ceasefire agreement was reached, with the BCCI using the platform to consistently honor the armed forces at every match since, including playing the national anthem before games and displaying “Thank You, Armed Forces” messages on stadium screens.
Grand Closing Ceremony Plans
The IPL 2025 closing ceremony will be entirely dedicated to honoring the Indian Armed Forces.
The BCCI has extended invitations to the chiefs of all three military branches, Army, Navy, and Air Force, as well as the Chief of Defence Staff and other top-ranking officers and soldiers, making them special guests at the final.
Select stands in the stadium will be reserved for armed forces personnel, and the ceremony will feature patriotic songs, performances by military bands, and appearances by prominent singers to set a solemn and respectful tone.
BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia emphasized the significance of the tribute, stating, “While cricket remains a national passion, there is nothing greater than the nation and its sovereignty, integrity, and security. We are proud of our armed forces and thankful to them for ensuring our security and safety at all times”.
