Sun Nov 24 23:53:10 UTC 2024: ## IPL Mega Auction: Mumbai Art Collector Mallika Sagar Steals the Show
**Jeddah, Saudi Arabia** – The first day of the IPL Mega Auction 2025 in Jeddah saw intense bidding wars between franchises vying for players. However, it was auctioneer Mallika Sagar who captivated the attention of viewers and internet users alike.
Sagar, a Mumbai-based art collector and consultant specializing in contemporary Indian art, is making waves with her elegant conduct of the high-stakes auction. Her career began at Christie’s auction house in New York, where in 2001 she became the first Indian woman to conduct a modern Indian art auction. She has since overseen numerous high-profile art auctions in Mumbai and has also gained experience conducting sports auctions, including the Pro Kabaddi League in 2021 and the Women’s Premier League (WPL) auction earlier this year.
This marks Sagar’s second IPL auction, making her the first woman and Indian national to ever hold this role in the league’s history. While acknowledging the differences between art and sports auctions, she has previously stated she extensively prepared for the role, drawing inspiration from videos of auctioneer Hugh Edmiston.
While the auction itself saw significant activity and high-value bids, Sagar’s performance as the auctioneer has garnered considerable online buzz, highlighting the rising visibility of women in high-profile sports events.
First Piper 