The nineteenth edition of the Indian Premier League 2026 is all set to begin on March 28. The Board for Control of Cricket in India has officially cancelled the opening ceremony as a mark of respect for all 11 fans who have lost their lives in Bengaluru last year.
The usual high-decibel Bollywood performances and laser shows will be absent. This is not the first time that the board has prioritised sensitivity over spectacle.
Why Was the IPL Opening Ceremony Cancelled Last Time?
Here are the incidents that led the BCCI to cancel the opening ceremony of the Indian Premier League.
Pulwama Attack in 2019
The last time the IPL opening ceremony was cancelled in 2019, following the Pulwama terror attack that claimed the lives of 40 CRPF personnel, the Supreme Court-appointed committee of administrators took a firm stand. In addition, instead of spending the money on the opening ceremony, the board decided to donate the entire budget, which was approx. INR 20 crore to the families of martyrs.
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The Pandemic Years (COVID-19)
During the IPL 2020, 2021, and 2022, the ceremony was cancelled because of the pandemic. The decision was taken due to safety reasons for COVID-19.
June 4, 2025 Stampede After RCB’s Victory
This year, the IPL opening ceremony was cancelled because of the incident that happened after RCB’s victory, where the victory celebration in the city turned fatal when overcrowding led to a stampede outside the M. Chinnaswamy stadium, claiming 11 lives.
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BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia confirmed the decision
BCCI secretary, Devajit Saikia, confirmed the decision to skip the IPL 19th edition opening ceremony ahead of the first match on 28th March between Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Sunrisers Hyderabad.
As per ABP news, he said: “Due to last year’s tragic incident on June 4, there will be no formal function on the day of the start of IPL 2026 in Bengaluru,” Saikia told The Times of India. “The BCCI is not organizing any cultural or entertainment show as a mark of respect to the departed souls.”
To further honor the fans, RCB has announced it will leave 11 seats permanently vacant at the Chinnaswamy Stadium, ensuring those lost are “with the team forever.”
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Last Year’s Opening Ceremony
Last year, in the 2025 opening ceremony of IPL, the event took place at the iconic Eden Gardens, after the Kolkata Knight Riders won their third title. As per Wionews, various A-list Bollywood stars, including KKR owner Shahrukh Khan, singer Shreya Ghoshal, and Karan Aujla. In addition, the dance performance was by Disha Patani.