KOLKATA: The sixth edition of the world-famous Indian Premier League (IPL) kicked off last night from Salt Lake Stadium with the grandest, most dazzling opening ceremony anybody had ever seen!

Featuring Shah Rukh Khan, principal owner of last year’s winning team ‘Kolkata Knight Riders’ who was hosting the night, and who enthralled the audience in his inimitable style. Displaying an infectious, almost adrenaline-inducing energy, Shah Rukh was the heart and soul of the opening ceremony, while he performed to his greatest hits including ‘Yeh Kaali Kaali Aankhen’, ‘Tumse Milke Dil Ka Haal’ and ‘Chammak Chalo’.

Katrina Kaif looked like a fairytale princess in a golden cape and tiara, as she arrived on a grand throne, and performed some of her biggest hits. ‘Sheila ki Jawaani’ and ‘Mashallah’ were the jewels in her performance crown.

Deepika Padukone sizzled and rocked the dance floor with ‘Tum hi ho Bandhu’ and ‘Khuda Jaane’. She looked like a million bucks in her gold bustier and tight black leather pants, as she grooved to her desi beats.

The biggest act of the night was Canadian rapper Pitbull, who had flown in especially for the night. He raised the tempo and got the staid, sober audience to their feet with his super hit songs like ‘Don’t stop the Party’ and ‘Give me Everything’

SRK, Katrina, Deepika soon joined Pitbull on stage for an encore performance, which was the highlight of the night.

Other performances included a lovely 80’s styled medley by Usha Uthup and Bappi Lahiri, and a dance performance with flying drums, Chinese percussionists and acrobats.