Paris 2024 Olympics Opening Ceremony: PV Sindhu, Sharath Kamal keep Indian flag flying high on magical cruise over Seine

The Paris 2024 Olympics Opening Ceremony was unlike anything the world has ever seen before. A first-of-its-kind Parade of Nations floated over the river Seine and passed through the heart of the French capital to officially flag off the world’s biggest sporting showpiece.

Around 6,800 athletes, many soon-to-be Olympians, on 90 boats travelled through a 6km route from the Austerlitz bridge beside the Jardin des Plantes to the Trocadéro, passing through some of the City of Lights’ iconic landmarks.

The Indian contingent, consisting of 78 athletes, were 84th in order. Two-time Olympic medallist PV Sindhu and four-time Olympian Sharath Kamal were the flag bearers of India, who shared their boat with the Islamic Republic of Iran and Indonesia.

“It’s a one-time opportunity and a proud moment for both of us (Sharath Kamal),” Sindhu said moments before the parade kicked off. “I’ve known Sharath for a long time and it feels really nice to be beside him as co-flagbearer. I want him to do well and I want him to enjoy it. He’s come so far in his journey”.

For Sharath Kamal, it was an emotional day.

“People have been congratulating me in the last few days,” Sharath said. “It has been very overwhelming and it is going to be a big day for all of us.”

The Indian athletes donned traditional outfits, featuring ikat-inspired prints and Banarasi brocade, designed by Tarun Tahiliani. The men were draped in traditional kurta bundi sets while the women wore sarees.

The Indian athletes who have competitions on Saturday decided to not take part in the Ceremony. The Indian athletics contingent, including reigning men’s javelin throw champion Neeraj Chopra, Tokyo 2020 silver medallist Mirabai Chanu and the Indian wrestlers are yet to reach Paris.

Thomas Jolly, a French theatre director and actor, took charge as artistic director of all the ceremonies.

A number of musical and artistic activities were performed as the Parade passed through many iconic destinations of Paris, including the Notre-Dame Cathedral, Pont des Arts, Louvre Museum among others.

Many world renowned personalities made an appearance in the ceremony - including American singer Lady Gaga and France’s football legend Zinedine Zidane.

The ceremony, grand and spectacular, was a fitting homage to the historic city’s rich cultural heritage and diversity and included elements of drama, music, theatre and fashion.

The procession culminated with the ceremonial hoisting of the Olympic flag with the iconic Eiffel Tower as the backdrop followed by the torch lighting ceremony.