Preity Zinta Stayed Behind While Others Left At Dharamshala Stadium When IPL Match Was Cancelled — Here’s Why

May 14, 2025: A high-stakes IPL 2025 match between Punjab Kings and Delhi Capitals came to an abrupt halt last week following a national security alert linked to India’s military operation, codenamed Operation Sindoor. As tension mounted, it was Bollywood actress and Punjab Kings co-owner Preity Zinta who emerged as a calming presence in the chaos.

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The match at the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium was suspended after 10.1 overs, when Indian authorities initiated emergency evacuation protocols. This swift action followed reports of a drone incursion by Pakistan near Chandigarh, which triggered a rapid military response.

In the midst of this sudden evacuation, Preity Zinta was captured on video assisting IPL officials and stadium staff, urging calm and helping coordinate the exit of thousands of fans. Her composed demeanor during the unexpected crisis has since gone viral across social media platforms.

Taking to X (formerly Twitter), Zinta responded to a fan who asked how she felt during the evacuation. “There was never any doubt regarding everyone’s safety as I trust our armed forces and our government completely,” she wrote. “Since the stadium was packed, we wanted to make sure that everyone evacuated safely, and for that it was important for us to stay back so that people didn’t panic looking at us leave. Once the players were sent and people were leaving, I was relieved that everything went well.”

Later, Zinta shared a heartfelt post on Instagram expressing gratitude to officials, particularly the Indian Railways and Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, for facilitating a safe and efficient departure from Dharamshala. “Finally back home after a crazy last few days,” she wrote. “A heartfelt thank you… for helping both IPL teams and all officials & families leave Dharamshala in a safe, swift & comfortable way.”

She went on to thank the BCCI, IPL authorities, and fans in Dharamshala for remaining calm and cooperative during the emergency. Zinta also issued a gentle apology to fans for not stopping for photos amid the tension: “I’m sorry I was a bit curt… My main priority was safety.”

The incident has brought to light the unpredictable challenges of hosting large-scale events during volatile times. As IPL 2025 faces an uncertain future amid rising geopolitical tensions, Zinta’s leadership under pressure has been widely praised.