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Asian Games 2023 Opening Ceremony - In Pics

The highly anticipated Asian Games 2023 has officially opened its doors in Hangzhou, China, marking the beginning of an extraordinary sporting extravaganza. Delayed for a year due to the global COVID-19 pandemic, this quadrennial event promises to be a remarkable spectacle, with more than 12,000 athletes from 45 nations competing in 40 sports. Amidst the grandeur and cultural richness of the opening ceremony, it was a moment of pride for India as its athletes, led by flagbearers Harmanpreet Singh and Lovlina Borgohain, made a striking entrance onto the international stage. As Chinese President Xi Jinping declared the games open, the world turned its attention to Hangzhou, where the spirit of competition, camaraderie, and cultural exchange has taken centre stage. In this article, we bring you live updates from the Asian Games 2023 opening ceremony, with a special focus on India's role and representation in this grand sporting event.

Akash Kharade|

Updated:Sep 23, 2023, 07:37 PM IST

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Indian Athletes Shine:

The Indian contingent, led by flagbearers Harmanpreet Singh and Lovlina Borgohain, made a strong entrance during the athletes' parade.

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Chinese President's Declaration:

Chinese President Xi Jinping declared the 19th Asian Games open in Hangzhou, marking the official start of the grand sporting event.

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Indian Tennis Team's Presence:

India's tennis team was seen eagerly awaiting the opening ceremony, highlighting the diverse representation of Indian athletes.

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Unique Mascots:

The Games mascots—Congcong, Lianlian, and Chenchen—engaged with the audience, adding a touch of charm to the event.

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Cultural Showcases:

Performers showcased the rich culture, tradition, and history of China in a delightful performance, giving a glimpse of the host nation's heritage.

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OCA Flag Ceremony:

The OCA Flag ceremony was carried out, involving eight Chinese athletes, fostering a sense of unity among Asian nations.

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International Delegations:

Teams from various countries like Japan, Indonesia, Iran, and others followed India's entry, demonstrating the global diversity of the Asian Games.

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India's Notable Presence:

With Harmanpreet Singh and Lovlina Borgohain leading the way, India's athletes took centre stage during the parade, symbolizing the country's strong participation.

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Security Measures:

The city of Hangzhou implemented strict security measures to ensure a smooth and safe opening ceremony, with President Xi Jinping and other dignitaries in attendance.

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A Year of Anticipation:

After a year-long delay due to COVID-19 measures, the Asian Games 2023 finally kicked off, representing a significant sporting event for China and the entire Asian continent.