The Indian Premier League 2025 turned into a patriotic celebration at the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium in Dharamsala, as the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) paid a powerful homage to the Indian Army ahead of the match between Punjab Kings and Delhi Capitals. This tribute came just two weeks after a terrorist attack by Pakistani militants in Pahalgam, which was followed by a successful Indian counterstrike under Operation Sindoor.
With emotions running high across the country, the IPL’s tribute came as a symbolic moment of national unity and pride. The tribute had been pre-scheduled by the BCCI, recognizing the valor and sacrifice of the Indian Army, and it was observed with complete reverence by players, staff, and the crowd. The match, originally intended as a cricketing spectacle, evolved into a poignant show of respect and national solidarity in the wake of ongoing tensions between India and Pakistan.
B Praak’s powerful performance in Dharamsala salutes the Indian Armed Forces
Renowned Bollywood singer and composer B Praak delivered a stirring pre-match performance dedicated to India’s armed forces. Beginning with his iconic patriotic song “Teri Mitti,” from the film Kesari, B Praak instantly captivated the entire stadium with his emotional and powerful voice. He continued with a medley of his superhit patriotic songs in a live set that lasted around 20 minutes. During the performance, the crowd was visibly moved, many waving flags, joining in the chorus, and applauding in sync with the music. His songs not only honored the courage and sacrifices of the soldiers but also celebrated India’s indomitable spirit.
A Tribute to Indian Armed Forces, ft. B Praak 🇮🇳#TATAIPL | #PBKSvDC | @PunjabKingsIPL | @DelhiCapitals pic.twitter.com/QtXXoHZ4kn
— IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) May 8, 2025
Although the rain interrupted his performance midway, by then the mood in Dharamshala had already been transformed. Fans present at the stadium were filled with pride, and the performance left a lasting emotional imprint, elevating the energy before the match to a completely different level. The gesture in Dharamshala was part of a broader tribute series planned across IPL venues. A similar patriotic display was seen a day earlier at Eden Gardens, where Kolkata Knight Riders faced Chennai Super Kings. Before the start of that match, all players, support staff, and match officials stood in solemn respect during the national anthem.
A powerful moment before #KKRvCSK
The National Anthem of India was played at Eden Gardens to honor and show solidarity with the Indian Armed Forces following Operation Sindoor. A stirring gesture of unity and pride! 💂♂️🎖️#Cricket #IPL #IPL2025 #India pic.twitter.com/R3YigMT4wh
— CricketTimes.com (@CricketTimesHQ) May 7, 2025
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IPL 2025 match between Punjab Kings and Delhi Capitals abandoned
According to Cricbuzz report, The BCCI has officially confirmed that the IPL 2025 match between Punjab and Delhi at the HPCA Stadium in Dharamsala has been abandoned. The abandonment came after a significant technical failure in the region led to a power outage, resulting in the malfunction of one of the stadium’s light towers. The floodlight issue occurred during the 11th over of the second innings, forcing players off the field and ultimately leading to the cancellation of the match.
“The match had to be called off due to circumstances beyond our control. We sincerely apologize to the fans who turned up in large numbers to support their teams,” the statement reads.
PBKS were cruising at 122/1 in 10.1 overs in their innings when three of the four floodlight towers suddenly dimmed during the 11th over, leading to an abrupt suspension of play. With visibility becoming unsafe for players and officials, the match was halted as ground staff and engineers scrambled to restore the power.
IPL match between Punjab Kings and Delhi Capitals has been called-off
📷: BCCI#IPL2025 #PBKSvDC #cricket pic.twitter.com/SnFZA23GcZ
— CricketTimes.com (@CricketTimesHQ) May 8, 2025
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