NEW DELHI: The 2024 Paris Olympics’ opening ceremony was a breathtaking and unique spectacle, held along the iconic Seine River, flowing through the heart of Paris rather than inside a stadium. Over 1,000 athletes traveled on approximately 100 boats, passing by historic landmarks such as Notre Dame and Pont des Arts, creating an unforgettable visual experience. This innovative approach highlighted Paris’ beauty and offered a fresh take on the traditional parade of nations.
India’s contingent proudly joined this floating parade, making a historic and picturesque mark on the event. Leading the Indian team were star shuttler PV Sindhu and veteran table tennis player Sharath Kamal, who had the honor of being the flag bearers. Sindhu expressed immense pride in her role, sharing her hopes of performing well in the competition. “It is an incredible honor to be the flag bearer for India,” Sindhu said. “I am filled with pride and excitement and hope to make my country proud with my performance.”
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Sharath Kamal, participating in his fifth and final Olympics, described it as a fantastic moment to lead the contingent alongside Sindhu. “To lead the Indian team in my final Olympics is a dream come true,” Kamal remarked. “Walking along the Seine with my fellow athletes was an unforgettable experience.”
India sent a strong contingent of 117 athletes and 140 support staff to the 2024 Paris Olympics, aiming to build on their successful performance in Tokyo. The athletes donned outfits designed by renowned designer Tarun Tahiliani, featuring traditional ikat-inspired prints and Banarasi brocade. These designs beautifully reflected India’s tricolor flag, adding a touch of cultural elegance to the grand event.
The opening ceremony set a vibrant tone for India’s participation in the Paris Olympics. The athletes’ enthusiasm and the stunning visual display along the Seine made for a memorable start to the games. India’s presence was not only marked by their numbers but also by the spirit and pride they brought to the ceremony.
This unique opening ceremony was a testament to the creativity and innovation of the Paris 2024 organizers. For India, it was a moment of immense pride, showcasing the nation’s rich heritage and the athletes’ determination to excel on the world stage. As the games unfold, India hopes to add to its tally of achievements, inspired by the grand and historic start along the Seine.