India’s Flag-bearers Shine at the Paris 2024 Paralympics Opening Ceremony
On Thursday, the Paris 2024 Paralympics commenced with a grand Opening Ceremony where Sumit Antil and Bhagyashri Jadhav proudly served as flag-bearers for the Indian contingent. The event was marked by a vibrant atmosphere in the French capital, as French President Emmanuel Macron officially declared the Games open in front of thousands of enthusiastic spectators along the iconic Champs-Elysées.
Sumit Antil expressed his pride in representing India, noting, “It is a matter of pride for me. I have been training for eight years for my country, and the contingent is very strong this time – we are hoping for a lot of medals – so I am proud to be the flag bearer for both this contingent and my country.” The Indian team, consisting of 84 athletes, represents the largest delegation from India in the history of the Paralympics.
The Parade of Nations commenced with Afghanistan leading the procession, followed by delegations from 168 nations. The Indian contingent was honored to be led by esteemed athletes; Sumit Antil, the reigning world champion in javelin throw, aims to defend his Paralympic title in the F64 category. Bhagyashri Jadhav, a notable para shot-putter, earned a silver medal during the 2022 Asian Para Games and ranked seventh at the Tokyo Paralympics.
The ceremony also highlighted the return of Bangladesh to the Paralympic arena after 16 years and celebrated the largest Refugee Paralympic Team in history, comprising eight athletes. Entertainment during the event featured a performance by Canadian pianist Chilly Gonzales alongside numerous dancers, while Christine and the Queens paid tribute to the legendary French artist Edith Piaf with an emotive rendition of “Non, je ne regrette rien.” Additionally, the event showcased performances by French artist Lucky Love, who, despite losing his left arm at birth, inspired the audience along with other wheelchair-bound artists, while fighter planes painted the skies in the colors of the French national flag.
The highlight of the ceremony culminated in the lighting of the Paralympic Flame by distinguished French Paralympic champions Charles-Antoine Kouakou, Fabien Lamirault, Elodie Lorandi, Alexis Hanquinquant, and Nantenin Keïta, accompanied by a stunning display of fireworks that illuminated the night sky, marking the official commencement of the much-anticipated Games.
The Paris 2024 Paralympics promise to be an inspiring showcase of athletic excellence and resilience, uniting athletes from around the world in celebration of their extraordinary talents and achievements.
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