The Uttarakhand Premier League (UPL) returns this week, transforming the Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium into the state’s ultimate celebration of cricket and culture. Apart from the top quality cricketing action on the field, this season, India’s top musical acts are also set to light up the stage: Bollywood icon Neeti Mohan will mesmerize fans at the UPL Cricket Carnival on 26th September, while Badshah, India’s chart-topping critically acclaimed hip-hop artist, will close out the league
with a power-packed finale on 5th October.
UPL’s grand celebration opens on 23rd September with a night of spectacular variety—international sensation Elnaaz Norouzi will set the tempo for the season, joined by Garhwali mash-up vocal powerhouses Ruhaan Bhardwaj and Karishma Shah, the raw Jaunsari folk energy of Ajju Tomar and Ajay Chauhan, and a dazzling dance show by Sana Sultan. Accompanied by a dynamic live band, these acts will bring an explosion of sound, color, and rhythm to Dehradun.
The excitement continues on 26th September post the women’s final, as Neeti Mohan headlines the UPL Cricket Carnival, fusing Bollywood glamour with sporting energy where entry for fans will be free through registration on the District by Zomato app. The high octane performances reach the pinnacle on 5th October, when Badshah commands the spotlight for an epic Closing Ceremony as the Uttarakhand Premier League Season 2 crowns its men’s champions—making Dehradun a destination for fans of sport and world-class entertainment alike.
Uttarakhand’s own artists are at the heart of UPL’s cultural programming, sharing the spotlight with India’s most celebrated stars. More names and unique local acts will be announced as the league brings together the sound, spirit, and story of the state with unmatched fervour.
Earlier this week, UPL Season 2 also unveiled the “UPL Ki Aawaaz” sports presenter contest, a breakthrough career search for gifted sports lovers (aged 18–45) across Uttarakhand. Aspiring presenters can submit a 30-second to 1-minute video for a chance to be shortlisted for live auditions, with winners joining the UPL broadcast team on TV and OTT. Given the high demand, organizers Sspark Sports and Entertainment have extended the deadline to 23rd September 2025. Interested individuals who belong to Uttarakhand can apply through the link provided in UPL’s official social media handles.
Kiran Rautela Verma, Secretary, Cricket Association of Uttarakhand, said, “Uttarakhand Premier League is a platform that celebrates Uttarakhand’s sporting and artistic excellence. This season, by bringing together India’s leading stars and inspiring local performers, we continue to make UPL the state’s most vibrant celebration. We are delighted to see the keenness that even global artists have shown to come and perform in Uttarakhand while supporting high quality cricket. With the women’s tournament getting underway this Tuesday, we are looking forward to crowds gathering in large numbers to motivate our players on the field.”
Rajeev Khanna, Founder, Sspark Sports and Entertainment, added, “UPL is the stage where the dreams of Uttarakhand’s youth and artists meet the excitement of world-class cricket—making every moment and performance truly unforgettable. We are in the process of finalising one of the best artists line-ups in any sports competitions in the country led by globally recognised performers like Badshah and Neeti Mohan. It is also an opportunity for us to provide a platform to not just the state’s cricketers but also the artists and performers from Uttarakhand who have been doing well.”
The Season 2 of Uttarakhand Premier League kicks off this Tuesday, with two exciting women’s matches. Defending champions Mussoorie Thunders will face Pithoragarh Hurricanes in the opening match at 3pm, while new teams Tehri Queens and Haridwar Storm will face off at 7:30pm. The UPL 2025 runs from 23rd September to 5th October at the Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium, Dehradun—a must-attend festival for families and friends.
