Asian Games 2023 gets underway in Hangzhou with glitzy opening ceremony

HANGZHOU: The 19th Asian Games got underway in Hangzhou, China, on Saturday with a glitzy opening ceremony that included aspects of artificial intelligence and environmentally friendly technology. The ceremony was highlighted by a stunning futuristic light show.

Chinese President Xi Jinping, International Olympic Committee Chief Thomas Bach, and Asian Olympic Council Acting President Raja Randhir Singh participated in the event. Union Sports Minister Anurag Thakur did not attend the ceremony protesting the denial of visas to three wushu athletes from Arunachal Pradesh.

Eight Chinese Olympians lit the Games torch digitally. After a short and bright opening ceremony, the cultural performances began. The colourful ceremony came to an end with digital fireworks. The stadiums will witness active competitions from Sunday.

• 45- 45 countries from the Asian continent are participating
• 12,414- 12,414 athletes are participating in this Asian Games 2023
• 652- 652 Indian athletes are participating in the Asian Games. Although 655 athletes were selected, three Wushu players were not able to travel to China as China denied them visas. This is the largest Indian contingent participating in the Asian Games.