Paris, July 27: The much-anticipated opening ceremony of the Paris 2024 Olympics has captivated the world with an unprecedented and spectacular display. This year, the ceremony broke tradition by taking place outside the main stadium, along the historic River Seine, offering a unique and mesmerizing experience.
As the clock struck 11:00 pm IST, viewers in India tuned into television to witness the grandeur unfold. Over 500,000 spectators gathered in person, with many seated in newly constructed stands along the riverbanks, while others enjoyed the view from nearby balconies and apartments. Ticket prices soared to 2,700 euros (over ā¹2.45 lakhs), reflecting the high demand and excitement surrounding the event.
More than 10,000 athletes from around the world participated in a floating parade on approximately 100 boats, traversing the Seine and passing iconic Parisian landmarks such as Notre Dame, Pont des Arts, and Pont Neuf. The parade began at the Austerlitz bridge beside the Jardin des Plantes and concluded at the TrocadƩro.
The ceremony was graced by numerous dignitaries, including US First Lady Jill Biden, Britain’s Princess Anne, and Prince Albert of Monaco. Other notable attendees were King Felipe VI of Spain, Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky, British PM Keir Starmer, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, Italy’s President Sergio Mattarella, and Greek PM Kyriakos Mitsotakis, among others.
The opening ceremony featured performances by world-renowned artists, including Celine Dion, Lady Gaga, Dua Lipa, Ariana Grande, and French singer Aya Nakamura. Their performances added a touch of glamour and excitement to the evening, enthralling the audience with their stellar acts.
India’s 117-member contingent was led by badminton star PV Sindhu and table tennis veteran Sharath Kamal, who proudly carried the Indian flag during the Parade of Nations. Their presence highlighted India’s strong representation and determination to excel in the games.
The opening ceremony, conceptualized by Thierry Reboul and directed by Thomas Jolly, turned the Seine into a canvas of lights and colors, blending Paris’ rich history with contemporary flair. The Olympic flag was presented by The Horsewoman at Place du TrocadĆ©ro, marking a significant moment in the ceremony.
As the festivities continue, the world eagerly watches the athletes compete in the spirit of unity and excellence, celebrating the return of the Olympics to Paris after a century.