Asian Games 2026 begin in Japan with spectacular opening ceremony

AICHI-NAGOYA: The 20th edition of the Asian Games, the biggest sporting celebration in the world’s largest continent, officially began in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan. The Games opened with a spectacular ceremony at the main venue, Paloma Mizuho Stadium, on Saturday. The ceremony brought together Japanese traditions and cutting-edge technology.

Japan’s Emperor Naruhito officially declared the Games open. The opening ceremony began at 2.30 pm Indian time and lasted for around two hours.

India’s 158-member contingent took part in the march past. Olympic double medallist and shooting star Manu Bhaker led the Indian contingent along with Pawan Sehrawat, a member of India’s gold-medal-winning kabaddi team at the 2022 Asian Games.

Shot putter Tajinderpal Toor had earlier been announced as the flag-bearer alongside Manu Bhaker. However, he could not receive his kit for the opening ceremony on time. As a result, Pawan Sehrawat was chosen to lead the Indian contingent with Manu. Athletes from 45 countries and a refugee team took part in the march past.