The Hangzhou Asian Games kicked off with a special opening ceremony that combined futuristic technology and eco-friendly ideas. The event featured a spectacular light show, even though there was controversy surrounding the denial of entry to three Indian athletes from Arunachal Pradesh.
The ceremony was all about the blending of China, Asia, and the world in the modern era, emphasizing unity, love, and friendship among Asian people. It drew inspiration from the theme of ‘Tides Surging in Asia’ and used the flowing Qiantang river as a symbol.
The ceremony aimed to showcase China’s rich cultural heritage and modern technology, using stunning visuals to portray its journey to modernization. Digital technology played a big role, especially in the unique lighting of the Games’ Flame.
Chinese President Xi Jinping officially opened the Games, with over 12,000 athletes from 45 countries competing until October 8. Many dignitaries, including the acting president of the Olympic Council of Asia and the head of the International Olympic Committee, attended the event.
The Games were delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and this year’s opening ceremony focused on being environmentally friendly by using digital fireworks instead of real ones.
Despite the controversy and challenges, the ceremony was a thrilling and elegant start to the Games, warmly welcoming athletes from various countries, including India. However, India canceled the visit of its sports minister, Anurag Thakur, after three athletes from Arunachal Pradesh were denied visas by the Chinese government.
