Paris, Aug 29: The 17th edition of the Paralympic Games was officially inaugurated last night with a grand and historic opening ceremony at the Place de la Concorde in Paris. This marks the first time in Paralympic history that the opening ceremony has taken place outside the confines of a traditional stadium, setting a new precedent in the celebration of global sportsmanship and inclusion.
French President Emmanuel Macron formally declared the Games open, stating, “I declare the Games of the XVII Paralympiad open,” signaling the start of 12 days of intense competition among the world’s top para-athletes. Over 4,400 athletes from 168 nations are participating in the Games, which will run until September 8, 2024.
The ceremony began with a vibrant parade of athletes down the iconic Champs-Elysées, with Afghanistan leading the procession in French alphabetical order. India’s flag bearers, Sumit Antil and Bhagyashree Yadav, proudly represented the nation as they led the Indian contingent, which is the largest ever for the country at a Paralympic Games.
In a powerful address, Andrew Parsons, President of the International Paralympic Committee (IPC), emphasized the significance of the event, stating, “The para-athletes are here for far more than just to compete; they are here for equality and recognition. Paris 2024 will start the ‘inclusion revolution’.” His words resonated throughout the night, underscoring the transformative power of the Paralympic movement.
The French national anthem, “La Marseillaise,” was performed in a unique rendition by composer Victor le Masne, accompanied by the Ensemble Matheus, as the French flag was hoisted amidst cheers from the audience. The cultural segment of the ceremony featured performances by artists like Lucky Love, who sang “My Ability,” and Christine and the Queens, who paid tribute to the legendary French singer Edith Piaf with a new version of “Non, je ne regrette rien.”
The ceremony also highlighted the participation of the largest Refugee Paralympic Team in history, a symbol of hope and resilience. Bangladesh made a notable return to the Paralympics after a 16-year absence, parading with pride in front of a global audience.
For India, this edition of the Paralympic Games holds special significance, with the nation fielding its largest contingent ever. The Indian athletes, led by flag bearers Sumit Antil and Bhagyashree Yadav, marched with immense pride, showcasing the country’s growing commitment to supporting para-athletes. With high expectations resting on their shoulders, India’s participants are set to compete in various disciplines, with hopes of surpassing their previous best performances and bringing glory to the nation.
As the night progressed, the French delegation made its grand entrance to the song “Les Champs-Elysées,” performed by the American-French singer Joe Dassin. The event concluded with a dazzling pyrotechnic display that illuminated the Parisian sky in the colors of the French tricolor, symbolizing the spirit of unity and celebration that the Paralympic Games embody.
The Paris 2024 Paralympics promise to be a groundbreaking event, not only for the incredible athletic achievements but also for the powerful messages of inclusion, equality, and the unifying force of sports. The Games will continue to inspire and captivate audiences worldwide as para-athletes from around the globe compete at the highest levels, showcasing their extraordinary talents and determination.
