In a dazzling show of events, the Paris Olympics 2024 kicked off on the Seine River, marking a historic first for the Summer Games. For the very first time, the opening ceremony was held away from traditional stadium confines, transforming the iconic Parisian waterway into a grand stage. Athletes in elegant boats were seen sailing along a six-kilometre stretch of the Seine, turning the river into a breathtaking parade route and setting the scene for an unforgettable games! Here are the top 10 highlights form the grand opening event:
- At the forefront of the Indian team were PV Sindhu, a two-time medallist, and the seasoned Sharath Kamal, a five-time Olympian. In a historic first for the Olympics, athletes made their grand entrance not through stadium gates, but by sailing down the river, adding a unique and majestic touch to the Olympic opening.
- In a special pre-recorded segment, legendary French midfielder Zinedine Zidane was seen carrying the Olympics flame to kick off the opening ceremony. He sprinted from Stade de France with the torch but got delayed in the metro. He then passed the flame tot he children who navigated through catacombs before reaching the Seine River. The broadcast then shifted to a live view of the Seine, where the ceremony continued.
- After Lady Gaga’s spellbinding performance, the parade resumed with the arrival of China, one of the most decorated nations in Olympic history. Table tennis legend Ma Long and synchronized swimming star Feng Yu proudly were seen carrying the flag. The excitement soared again with a captivating set by French-Malian singer Aya Nakamura, accompanied by the French Army’s musicians. As the parade unfolded, an aircraft painted a pink heart across the sky over Paris, the city renowned for its romance.
- Indian fans’ excitement peaked when flagbearers Sharath Kamal and PV Sindhu, dressed in special traditional outfits, were seen leading the Indian team of 78 athletes and officials along the Seine. As the Indian boat moved by, cheers of “ITALIA” began to ring out along the River Seine, signaling Italy’s arrival in the Parade of Nations.
- At the culmination of the parade route, the Olympic flag was proudly raised in front of the Eiffel Tower, marking a grand moment in the opening ceremony. Volunteers carried the flags of all participating nations, parading them between the Trocadéro and the Eiffel Tower, creating a vibrant and colorful display of global unity.
- As the ceremony reached its closing stage, a highlight of the event was the presentation of the Olympic Laurel Award. This prestigious honor was bestowed upon Filippo Grandi, the UN High Commissioner for Refugees. The award recognized Grandi’s exceptional efforts and dedication to humanitarian work, celebrating his contributions to supporting refugees around the world. This moment underscored the Olympic spirit of global solidarity and the power of sport to bring attention to important causes.
