In the month of October 2014, when football fans across the world witnessed the birth of a new, stylized football league in India – the Hero Indian Super League [ISL] – there was an element of euphoria all around. This October, the world buckled up for yet another thrilling season of football, fun and manic passion as ISL 2015 kicked off at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Chennai today.The opening ceremony commenced in the midst of packed stands, armed with chants and roars. One could easily spot celebrities like Amitabh Bachchan, Jaya Bachchan, Mukesh Ambani and Rajinikanth.The ceremony kicked off at 6 pm with acclaimed theatre personality Shri Bansi Kaul’s troupe enthralling the crowds with a slew of traditional dance forms from South India.As the first event of the day came to an end, Bollywood star Arjun Kapoor took to the stage, ready to handle his duties as master of ceremonies. Soon to come up on stage was actress Alia Bhatt who entertained the crowds with some breath-taking dance moves. She ended her performance grooving to the "Let’s Football" theme song.The crowds then witnessed a “Domino Effect” – where all falling dominoes had images of ISL players printed upon them.The Ceremonial Pledge was taken next with several important people taking to the stage – Sanjay Gupta [Star India COO], owner Abhishek Bachchan and marquee player Elano Blumer representing the Chennaiyin FC side, and owner Utsav Parekh and marquee player Helder Postiga representing the Atlético de Kolkata side. Abhishek Bachchan finally echoed the feelings of the crowd as he recited the pledge.Aishwarya Rai Bachchan carried the ceremony ahead with her dance performance as she enthralled the spectators with a few Bollywood numbers from her films.Amidst much fanfare, Rajinikanth was introduced. He arrived in a vintage car that did a tour of the racetrack encircling the venue. On reaching the stage, he was welcomed by Sachin Tendulkar and Mrs Nita Ambani, and was seen cradling the official ball in his hands.”C’mon India, Let’s Football” was chanted by Mrs Ambani as Rajinikanth passed over the ball to her. Arjun Kapoor captured the moment in great style, taking a selfie with all the celebrated personalities on stage.After a short break, the opening ceremony was brought to an end on an endearing note by the “Mozart of Madras”, AR Rahman. He introduced the crowds to the Hero ISL Anthem and commanded the attention of one and all with his rendition of the national anthem, Jana Gana Mana.
