Kolkata, March 19: Steeped in gravitas and hopes of sustained peace, the high profile India-Pakistan World Twenty20 match at the Eden Gardens here got off to a flying start as Indian cine icon Amitabh Bachchan and Pakistani singer Shafqat Amanat Ali rendered their respective national anthems amid fervour with thousands joining in the initiative at the packed arena.

At the pre-game formality, delayed by nearly two hours, Big B described the match as a "historic game of cricket between the two countries".

Shafqat's version of Pakistan's 'qaumi tarana' "Pak sarzameen shadbad" in his inimitable style pulled the crowd to its feet. Both Indians and Pakistanis stood in reverence. The "Mora Saiyyan" and "Mitwa" singer, much-loved in India, struck a chord with the mixed crowd who listened in rapt attention.

10 facts about India-Pakistan World T20 match in Kolkata

IANS