IPL 2023 Opening ceremony: 'Captain cool' MS Dhoni takes the stage

CHENNAI: The 16th edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) kickstarted with grand celebrations at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.

Actresses Rashmika Mandanna, and Tamannah Bhatia will headline the event today.

As part of the ceremony, close to 1500 drones will be involved for a unique show to showcase designs, including the IPL trophy.

The maiden match will begin with a blockbuster clash of star-studded defending champions Gujarat Titans (GT) and four-time champions Chennai Super Kings at 7.30 pm.

Bollywood singer Arijit Singh is performing at the venue with Irfan Pathan along with Ravi Shastri on the ground.

Actress Tamannah Bhatia begins performance with a Tamil Song on the stage.

Actress Rashmika Mandanna begins her performance and says 'it's party time'. She grooves to 'Saami Sammi' and RRR's Nattu Nattu.

'Captain cool' MS Dhoni takes the stage.

Captains of both teams - Hardik Pandya and MS Dhoni are welcomed on stage as the fans roar for the two players. Pandya carries the trophy that his side won the previous time and joins the stage. Meanwhile, BCCI administrators Jay Shah and Roger Binny are also present on the stage.