The pandemic delayed Tokyo Olympics finally opened Friday night with cascading fireworks and made-for-TV choreography that unfolded in a near-empty stadium, a colorful but strangely subdued ceremony that set a striking tone to match unique pandemic Games.
Five-time World champion Mary Kom and Men’s Hockey team captain Manpreet Singh led there way as India made its way at the Parade of Nations during the opening ceremony of Tokyo Olympics on Friday at Japan National stadium.
Back home, Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports, Anurag Thakur was also seen waving the Indian flag as the Indian Contingent made its way to the Tokyo Olympics.
Twenty- five members of the Indian contingent made their way to the opening ceremony amid the COVID-19 concerns in the Japan’s capital.
Ankita Raina was added to the list of players attending opening ceremony, while Manika Batra and Sharath Kamal from the Table tennis team did not attend the ceremony. Amit, Ashish Kumar, Mary Kom were among the eight boxers who attended the opening ceremony alongside six Indian officials.
With the emergence of pandemic, many athletes had to train for the showpiece event in isolation and this is the main highlight during the opening ceremony as the performers showed how they have been connected by their hope and shared passion.
After the fireworks and lightning show, International Olympic Committee President, Thomas Bach was welcomed on the stage. The IOC had decided that only six officials will be allowed per contingent.
Among the handful of foreign dignitaries present during the opening ceremony of the Tokyo Olympics were French President Emmanuel Macron and US first lady Jill Biden.
SOURCE:
https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/tokyo-olympics/tokyo-olympics-2021-live-news-updates-olympic-games-tokyo-2020/liveblog/84664947.cms
