Sipliganj’s ‘Naatu Naatu’ headlines grand cultural performances at TG20 closing

Rahul Sipliganj headlined the Hyderabad Cricket Association TG20’s spectacular closing ceremony as the inaugural season came to a spectacular end at the Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium in Hyderabad on Sunday.

Oscar-winning singer Rahul Sipliganj, the voice behind ‘Naatu Naatu’, delivered a high-octane live performance for the stadium filled to the brim, while TG20 brand ambassador Vijay Deverakonda graced the closing ceremony, ahead of the summit clash between Hyderabad E-Champions and Anvita Khammam Aces.

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Grand Telangana cultural show

The evening opened with a grand Telangana cultural showcase, bringing together five distinct folk traditions, including Kolatam, Lambadi Dance, Bonalu Kolatam, Bathukamma dance and the thunderous Oggu Dollu, offering fans a sweeping tour of the state’s cultural heartland before a ball was bowled.

Speaking on the occasion, Rahul Sipliganj said: “Performing at the TG20 has been an amazing experience. I used to watch the Super Bowl, where artists perform in the center of the ground. I’m seeing something like this for the first time in Telangana, and performing in front of a packed crowd is an honour.”

Vijay Deverakonda, who has been associated with the league as brand ambassador through the season, added: “TG20 is officially the biggest tournament after the IPL and that is all down to the HCA, our superstar players, and the people of Telangana, who have made this possible. I’m so proud to witness what we have achieved here throughout the tournament. The atmosphere feels great and I’m glad this state has such a big league”

The stadium lit up with a sound, light and laser show accompanied by pyrotechnics during the mid-innings show, capping a matchday experience that fused world-class cricket with Telangana’s cultural pride – a hallmark of the tournament through its playoffs and now, its grand finale.