Hockey
HIL: Sara Ali Khan, King's opening ceremony performances cancelled
Bollywood actress Sara Ali Khan and singer King’s performances at the HIL 2024-25 opening ceremony have been cancelled as a mark of respect to former Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh.
The Hero Hockey India League (HIL) 2024-25 Governing Committee has cancelled the scheduled performances of Bollywood actor Sara Ali Khan and singer King at the league’s opening ceremony, which is slated to take place on Saturday evening .
The decision was made as a mark of respect to former Indian Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh, who passed away on Thursday.
The opening ceremony, originally set to include high-profile entertainment acts, will now proceed with a toned-down event, followed by the league’s first match between Team Gonasika and Delhi SG Pipers.
The Hockey India League is making a significant comeback after a seven-year hiatus, featuring a men’s tournament with eight teams and, for the first time, a women’s competition with four teams.
The league will showcase top Indian stars like Harmanpreet Singh, Manpreet Singh, and Hardik Singh, as well as international talents such as Blake Govers and Thierry Brinkman.
While the entertainment portion of the opening event has been curtailed, the league aims to focus on delivering top-tier hockey action.
The decision to cancel the performances underscores the league’s respect for national leaders and ensures that the event begins on a note of dignity and solemnity.
