IPL-8 Opening: Bollywood To Add Glitter To 'India Ka Tyohar'

KOLKATA: Brace for dazzling lights and laser projections shooting straight-off from the ground at the Salt Lake Stadium for a replay of the magical moments from past Indian Premier League (IPL) editions as a fresh chapter of the cash-rich Twenty20 tournament gets going with a glitzy opening jamboree that unites the world of cricket with blockbuster Bollywood here.

Setting the stage for the eighth edition of the league will be tinsel town's stars -- Hrithik Roshan, Shahid Kapoor and Anushka Sharma -- in what is being pitched as the 'India ka Tyohar' (Festival of India).

The two-hour inaugural aims to charm the audience with a festive feel and includes a special segment dedicated to defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR). It also incorporates more glimpses of cricket than the previous inaugurals.

Despite the absence of superstar Shah Rukh Khan, a regular at the inaugurals, or any foreign artist, Roshan Abbas's Encompass Events promises a "different" and "global" experience that will entertain all. The Kolkata connect will not be forgotten.

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