Fans await the real IPL action after star-studded opening ceremony

The opening ceremony of the Indian Premier League’s eighth edition turned out to be a starry affair.

Heavy rain failed to dampen the spirit of Kolkata as a dazzling Bollywood-awards style opening ceremony kick-started the gala cricket show.

The cine stars enthralled thousands of drenched fans.

Attention now turns to the real action: Wednesday's official opener between Kolkata Knight Riders and Mumbai Indians.

Rain caused almost an hour's delay, but it will take more than wet weather to prevent fans from getting into a jubilant mood.

With Bollywood stars like Hrithik Roshan, Shahid Kapoor, Anushka Sharma, Saif Al Khan and Farhan Akhtar, at times, one could have mistaken the opening ceremony for a film awards night.

Actress Anushka Sharma, girlfriend of Royal Challengers Bangalore captain Virat Kohli, delighted the Salt Lake stadium audience with her performance.