Hero Indian Super League 2016 was declared officially open after a spectacular opening ceremony at the Indira Gandhi Athletic Stadium in Guwahati on Saturday. India's Olympic silver medallist at Rio 2016, PV Sindhu was one of the star attractions at the ceremony, which also witnessed a wonderful dance performance by Bollywood superstar Jacqueline Fernandez.
Jacqueline's gig was followed by the entry of NorthEast United FC owner Mr John Abraham, Chennaiyin FC co-owner Mr Abhishek Bachchan and Indian cricket legend Mr MS Dhoni. Mr Bachchan took to the stage with his side's Hero ISL trophy and engaged in some friendly banter with Mr Abraham before Chennaiyin FC's other co-owner Mr Dhoni made his entry to a rapturous and warm welcome from the crowd.
However, the biggest cheer of the night was reserved for Kerala Blasters FC co-owner and Indian cricket icon Mr Sachin Tendulkar. Bollywood actor Alia Bhatt performed next and mesmerised the crowd with her breath-taking dancing moves.
FC Goa's brand ambassador and movie star Varun Dhawan was next up on stage. He was followed by the Founding Chairperson of Football Sports Development Mrs Nita Ambani, who elaborated on the Hero ISL's grassroots programme that has reached 1.3 million children.
She then awarded Mumbai City FC the “Best Grassroots Programme” for the second year running. Co-owner Mr Ranbir Kapoor received the award on behalf of his side. The ceremony ended with Olympic silver medallist Sindhu who handed over the official match ball - Puma Evo Pro 1.3 - to Mrs Ambani, who declared, “Come on India, Let's Football.”
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