IPL 2025: Eden Gardens Faces Empty Seats Amid Rising Ticket Prices
A Dazzling IPL 2025 Opening at Eden Gardens
On March 23, the iconic Eden Gardens in Kolkata buzzed with excitement as it hosted the grand opening ceremony of IPL 2025. The stadium, filled to the brim, witnessed a jubilant Shah Rukh Khan greeting the enthusiastic crowd. This event marked a much-anticipated return of the IPL after a year-long hiatus, with the match between Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) feeling more like a festive occasion than a mere game. However, the initial thrill quickly faded.
Declining Atmosphere and Empty Seats
As the season progressed, the vibrant energy that once filled the stadium began to wane. The lively cheers were replaced by an unsettling silence, particularly evident during the toss of the match against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) on April 3. This somber atmosphere persisted during the recent game against Rajasthan Royals (RR).
Ticket Pricing Concerns
Fans have expressed their discontent, not towards the franchise, but regarding the soaring ticket prices. Social media is rife with complaints about the steep costs; tickets that previously sold for ₹900 are now priced at ₹3,500. Such increases have alienated many loyal supporters in a city where cricket has traditionally been accessible to all.
Loss of Emotional Connection
The emotional bond with the team has also diminished. Shreyas Iyer, the former captain who led KKR to victory, embodied the team's spirit. His departure has left many fans feeling disconnected, as they miss the presence of a Bollywood superstar at the helm.
Fan Reactions
Fans React to this :
High price bro..Last time 900 ticket price & same ticket this year is 3500 rs
— Cricket Lover 🇮🇳💛 (@PradipMsd7) May 4, 2025
KKR is a diff beast when it comes to playing at an empty Eden Gardens 💀
— Karanveer Singh (@karan_nandre) May 4, 2025
Brining her 𝐉𝐚𝐚𝐝𝐮 at Eden ✨ pic.twitter.com/6jYi1u9YUd
— KolkataKnightRiders (@KKRiders) May 4, 2025
An empty Eden gardens is a little eerie. But had a great time with a good Indian win and amazing hospitality as usual! Missed Mexican wave though... #INDvWI #EdenGardens @CabCricket pic.twitter.com/cXI6cpryo3
— Yudhajit Dutta (@YudhajitDutta) February 18, 2022
Eden Gardens Details
Eden Gardens details:
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Opened | 1864 |
| Capacity | Around 63,000 |
| Ends | High Court End, Pavilion End |
| Location | Kolkata, India |
| Home to | Bengal, Kolkata Knight Riders |
| Curator | Probir Mukherjee |