ISL 2016| Opening ceremony to feature a host of Bollywood stars

After the grand success of the first two editions of the Indian Super League, the third edition is all set to commence from 1st October at the Indira Gandhi International Stadium in Sarusajai of Guwahati. The opener between the John Abraham-owned North-East United FC and Sachin Tendulkar-owned Kerala Blasters will be followed by the cultural programme. John Abraham will play the role of the host on the scintillating evening.

Bollywood starts Alia Bhatt, Jacqueline Fernandes and Varun Dhawan will perform on the stage alongside about 500 more artists in a spectacular show for 30 minutes. Cricket legend and the owner of Kerala Blasters Sachin Tendulkar will also be present on the occasion.

The host of the evening and the owner of North East United FC John Abraham expressed his happiness at getting the chance to host the function.

He said, “I'm extremely happy to get this opportunity to host the opening ceremony. It's a huge deal for my team as well as my people in the North-East region who have always showered the team with their love and supported us throughout," reported PTI.

"The opening ceremony promises to draw the world's attention to the potential of North-East region and I hope this encourages more youth from the area to take up football professionally," he added.

Nita Ambani, founder and chairperson, Reliance Foundation and Football Sports Development Limited along with Reliance Industries Limited chairman Mukesh Ambani will also be present during the ceremony.