From Blush Seats to Cultural Shows: Jaipur Prepares for RR's Homecoming

Synopsis
Jaipur is gearing up for the IPL 2025 with the Rajasthan Royals returning to their original home, Sawai Mansingh Stadium, adorned in a pink theme. With cultural showcases and environmental initiatives, the excitement builds as they prepare to host Royal Challengers Bengaluru.
Key Takeaways
- Rajasthan Royals return to their original home for the first time in IPL 2025.
- Stadium preparations include a vibrant pink theme and Rajasthani cultural elements.
- State Sports Council is overseeing the IPL matches this year.
- Efforts are in place for a Green IPL initiative linked with tree planting.
- RCB will arrive in Jaipur for practice ahead of their match.
Jaipur, April 10 (NationPress) Preparations are underway to adorn the Sawai Mansingh Stadium in Jaipur with a stunning pink theme as the Rajasthan Royals gear up to play at their original home for the first time in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025. The 2008 champions, who began their season in their secondary venue, the Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati, will return to their original ground to host the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) this Sunday.
This year, the State Sports Council has taken over the organization of the IPL matches in Jaipur from the Rajasthan Cricket Association (RCA). A meeting was convened by the Sports Council to discuss preparations for the upcoming IPL matches in Jaipur, leading to a significant decision to cancel all employee leaves immediately.
"A meeting was conducted with various departments, including Zila Prashasan, Police, Nagar Nigam, PWD, and Fire Departments, to ensure everyone understands their roles clearly, leaving no room for error. Safety standards being implemented have also been communicated to the Rajasthan Royals," stated Neeraj Kumar Pawan, Chairman of the Rajasthan State Sports Council, to IANS.
To celebrate Rajasthan’s rich cultural heritage, efforts are being made to ensure that every detail of the stadium, from the flooring to the seat covers, reflects the state's iconic pink theme and Rajasthani traditions. The stadium will showcase Leheriya print fabric on its exterior, complemented by performances from local folk artists to enhance the cultural atmosphere.
"We are dedicated to ensuring that every aspect, from the stadium's flooring to the seat covers, embodies the pink theme and Rajasthani culture. The inclusion of Leheriya print fabric outside the stadium and performances by folk artists has been mandated to promote this ethos.
"This IPL will be a Green IPL, aligning with Modi's initiative 'Ek Pedh Maa Ke Naam'. All attendees are encouraged to commit to planting trees during this monsoon season," he added.
RCB is scheduled to arrive in Jaipur on April 12 in the afternoon, followed by a practice session at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium that evening. Meanwhile, RR is set to arrive on April 11.
The Rajasthan Royals currently sit in seventh place in the points table with two wins from five matches, while Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) holds third place with three victories from four games.