Preity Zinta thanks fans for calm during stadium evacuation at Dharamshala after IPL match called off, apologises for curt behaviour

The IPL match between Punjab Kings and Delhi Capitals in Dharamshala was abruptly halted on May 8 amid escalating tensions between India and Pakistan. Following the stadium evacuation, actor and Punjab Kings co-owner Preity Zinta addressed the incident on social media, expressing gratitude for the swift response and apologizing to fans for her curt behaviour during the chaos.

Preity took to X on May 11 and shared a long note, expressing gratitude to the management for their swift response as well as the audience in the stadium for maintaining their composure and not panicking during the evacuation.

She wrote, "Finally back home after a crazy last few days. A heartfelt thank you to Indian Railways & our Railway minister Mr. Ashwini Vaishnaw for helping both IPL teams and all officials & families leave Dharamshala in a safe, swift & comfortable way. A big thank you to @JayShah, Mr Arun Dhumal, BCCI & our CEO Mr Satish Menon & the Operations team of @PunjabKingsIPL for helping co coordinate the evacuation of our stadium in Dharamshala safely & in an orderly manner. Everything was handled so well.”

She went on to apologise for her abrupt behaviour, explaining that she had declined photo requests because ensuring people's safety was the priority at that moment. “Finally to all the people that were in the Dharamshala stadium - Thankyou, Thankyou, Thankyou (folded hands emoticon) for not panicking & for any stampedes. You guys are absolute rock stars. I’m sorry I was a bit curt & said no to pictures with everyone but the need of the hour was the safety of everyone and it was my duty & responsibility to make sure everyone stayed safe. Thank you for making it possible. Love you all."

Also read: Govinda's wife Sunita Ahuja on their divorce rumours: 'He can never leave his family for any stupid person'