Players are the “fiercest artists of the world”, said superstar Shah Rukh Khan, at the inaugural ceremony of the Men’s Hockey World Cup here on Tuesday.

“Sports bring people together. It honours humanity and it knows no barriers,” said King Khan to loud cheers from the crowd.

The undisputed King of Bollywood entered in a chariot and went around the stadium before taking over the stage.

To begin with, Khan spoke a few words in Odia, which instantly created a connect that got the audience to respond with huge cheers and applause. Later, chief minister Naveen Patnaik also joined him on stage.

Khan reminisced his early days as a hockey player and how his father inspired him to play hockey.

“I played as the centre forward, while the chief minister was the goalkeeper in his school. It is time to relive those days,” said Khan.

“Each time we come together on such occasions and platforms, we reveal our oneness as human beings,” said Khan referring to the inaugural ceremony.

He also praised how a state like Odisha was encouraging sports through youngsters.

“When the youth is successful, a state flourishes. Odisha has carved this route for the world,” he said.

As Khan uttered the popular monologue from the film Chak De India — “70 minutes hai tumhare paas” — there was a huge round of applause.

Wishing the teams luck and success, Khan said: “Let us play not just to win but to take the world on a life changing journey through hockey.”

For the fans of Khan, it was lifetime experience.

“Although he was not so visible clearly, that did not bother me. The fact that I could hear him live was a deal big enough,” said Archana Jena, an IT professional.