Fireworks, laser show dazzle at HIL opening ceremony

The third edition of the Hockey India League (HIL) got off to a glittering start with the opening ceremony, studded with fireworks, laser show and dance performances, enthralling the 6,000-odd spectators at the Kalinga Stadium here Thursday.

Actress Perizaad Zorabian was the emcee of the event and unwrapped a spectacular laser show which gripped the audience followed by a remarkable dance performances of Odisha actors Sabyasachi and Archita.

Following the ceremony, Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik unveiled the HIL trophy for which the six participating teams will be clashing against each other over the next one month.

Next up, a dazzling fireworks display adorned the skies for five minutes before home side Kalinga Lancers and Ranchi Rays stepped on to the turf to play the tournament opener.

"For the inauguration of the most prominent hockey league in the world, we have tried and crafted a similarly delightful evening meant for our fans, followers and spectators as well as the participating teams who are all geared to put up some brilliant game of hockey in the imminent month-long league," HIL chairman Narinder Batra said at the ceremony.