In the words of Abhinav Bindra, “An opening ceremony is more than just a spectacle, it’s a culmination of dreams, sweat, and countless hours of dedication. As athletes, when we walk into that stadium, our hearts race with adrenaline, not just from the sheer magnitude of the event, but from the realization of how far we’ve come. I still vividly remember my first Olympics in Sydney.
“I was a 17-year-old boy, wide-eyed and overwhelmed, stepping into that colossal stadium. The roar of the crowd, the sea of flags, and the unity of nations – it was surreal. That moment remains etched in my heart, reminding me of the power of dreams and the magic of the representing your country.”
May I say each word feels true sitting here in Hangzhou.
For those who have grown up watching sports, multinational events hold a special place in our hearts. And when it comes to any multinational event, the opening ceremony is always special. We have seen so many such ceremonies on television, be it of the Commonwealth Games, or previous editions of the Asian Games, or the Olympics, but what we have witnessed today will always be special.
My first one from the ground on foreign soil. An event, with local flavour at its core with a cosmopolitan touch to make it global and inclusive. China stood up to welcoming Asia and did so really well. Dances, comic acts, music and celebrations of the very highest level. The 19th Asian Games had a grand opening, and the cheer from the crowd added to it when the Chinese President entered the ceremony.
But as Indian journalists, the roar from inside came when the giant screen showed in all caps, INDIA and the announcer said the name. As our flag bearers, when Harmanpreet Singh and Lovlina Borgohain led the contingent with the tri colour held high, it was a goosebumps moment for us in the media Tribune. The Games had started. We are here. India is here. Let the medal rush start.