Virat Kohli, the star batter of India and Royal Challengers
Bengaluru (RCB), experienced an amusing moment of embarrassment when Bollywood
superstar Shah Rukh Khan chanted 'Kohli Kohli' during the IPL 2025 opening
ceremony. The event, held at Eden Gardens, was electrified by the presence of
the cricketing and Bollywood icons, making it a memorable start to the season.
Shah Rukh Khan Introduces Virat Kohli as the ‘GOAT’
Shah Rukh Khan, co-owner of the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR),
took center stage to introduce Virat Kohli as the 'Greatest of All Time' (GOAT)
before inviting him on stage. The crowd at Eden Gardens erupted into thunderous
chants of 'Kohli Kohli,' creating an atmosphere of sheer excitement. The
ovation was so overwhelming that it took nearly five minutes before SRK and
Kohli could converse due to the deafening cheers from the audience.
“Virat bhai is the only player who has remained loyal to
a single team throughout the IPL. He is the OG, the GOAT of IPL,” SRK
proclaimed before welcoming Kohli on stage.
Virat Kohli’s Reaction to SRK’s Grand Welcome
Shah Rukh Khan further fueled the energy by personally
leading the crowd in chanting Kohli’s name. The unexpected adulation left Kohli
visibly blushing as he graciously thanked the Bollywood icon.
“Thank you, Shah Rukh bhai, for such a lovely
introduction,” said Kohli with a smile.
He then addressed the crowd, expressing his enthusiasm for
the upcoming season:
“The bold generation is coming along nicely, but the old
generation is still here. We are still ready to make an impact, play the game,
and create more memories for our fans.”
Kohli and SRK Dance to ‘Jhoome Jo Pathaan’
Adding to the excitement, Kohli and Shah Rukh Khan shared a
lighthearted moment as they danced together to the blockbuster song ‘Jhoome Jo
Pathaan.’ Their performance was met with roaring applause from the crowd, further
elevating the celebratory mood of the evening.
BCCI Honors Kohli with ‘IPL 18’ Memento
In a special moment during the ceremony, BCCI President
Roger Binny presented Virat Kohli with an exclusive ‘IPL 18’ memento, marking
his unwavering commitment to the league since its inception.
Shah Rukh Khan Chats with Rinku Singh
Besides interacting with Kohli, SRK also engaged with KKR’s
emerging talent, Rinku Singh. The actor asked Singh about the fearless approach
of young cricketers in the modern game, adding an insightful touch to the
event.
Star-Studded IPL 2025 Opening Ceremony
The IPL 2025 opening ceremony was a star-studded affair
featuring performances by renowned singer Shreya Ghoshal, Punjabi sensation
Karan Aujla, and Bollywood actress Disha Patani. The event, hosted by KKR, saw
a spectacular mix of music, dance, and cricket fever.
Adding to the grandeur, both KKR and RCB captains, Ajinkya
Rahane and Rajat Patidar, made a royal entrance on a chariot, heightening the
anticipation for the much-awaited match.
KKR vs RCB: The IPL 2025 Opener
The 18th edition of the IPL commenced with a high-voltage
clash between defending champions KKR and RCB. This match marked the first time
since the inaugural IPL season in 2008 that these two franchises squared off in
the season opener, setting the stage for an exciting tournament ahead.
With an electrifying start featuring two of India’s most
beloved personalities, IPL 2025 promises to be a season filled with thrilling
cricketing action, entertainment, and unforgettable moments.