BCCI to Pay Tribute to Indian Armed Forces at IPL 2025 Closing Ceremony
In a heartfelt gesture of gratitude, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has announced that the closing ceremony of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025, scheduled for June 3 at the iconic Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, will be dedicated to the Indian Armed Forces. This 45-minute tribute is a recognition of their unwavering courage and selfless service, particularly highlighted by their heroic efforts during Operation Sindoor.
BCCI Secretary Jay Shah, speaking on behalf of the board, expressed immense pride in the armed forces. “We salute the bravery and dedication of our armed forces, whose actions during Operation Sindoor have not only protected but also inspired our nation,” Shah said in a statement to TOI. “While cricket unites us as a country, nothing surpasses the sovereignty and security of India. Dedicating the IPL 2025 closing ceremony to our heroes is a small token of our gratitude for their relentless service.”
The closing ceremony promises to be a solemn yet stirring occasion. Invitations have been extended to senior armed forces officials, and designated stands at the stadium will be reserved for military personnel during the IPL final. The event will feature patriotic songs, performances by military bands, and a musical evening with renowned singers, creating an atmosphere of national pride ahead of the grand finale.
This tribute comes in the wake of Operation Sindoor, a decisive military operation launched on May 7, 2025, in response to the tragic Pahalgam terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir, which claimed the lives of 26 civilians. The operation targeted terrorist hideouts in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, showcasing the armed forces’ precision and resolve. Amid escalating tensions, the IPL 2025 season was briefly suspended for a week, resuming on May 17 following a ceasefire agreement.
Upon resumption, the BCCI ensured the armed forces’ contributions were acknowledged across venues. Players stood in solidarity, singing the national anthem before matches, while giant screens flashed messages of gratitude with slogans like ‘Thank You, Armed Forces’. This is not the first time the BCCI has honored the military; in 2019, following the devastating Pulwama attack that killed 44 CRPF personnel, the board invited military bands to the IPL opening ceremony and pledged Rs 20 crore for the welfare of the armed forces.
As the IPL 2025 season builds towards its climax, this closing ceremony will serve as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by the armed forces. With a seating capacity of over 132,000, the Narendra Modi Stadium— the largest cricket stadium in the world—will resonate with pride and patriotism, uniting fans and players alike in honoring India’s real heroes.