The 20th Asian Games officially began on Saturday with a colourful opening ceremony at Mizuho Park Athletic Stadium in Nagoya, Japan. The event brought together athletes from across Asia as the continent’s biggest sporting competition got underway.
Japan’s Emperor Naruhito officially declared the Games open, marking the start of the sporting event, which will feature thousands of athletes over the next two weeks.
The opening ceremony featured music, lights and traditional Japanese performances, offering a mix of the country’s rich culture and modern identity.
Manu Bhaker, Pawan Sehrawat Carry Indian Flag
Olympic medallist Manu Bhaker and kabaddi player Pawan Sehrawat led the Indian contingent during the opening ceremony.
The duo carried the Indian tricolour as the country’s athletes entered the stadium. Their presence reflected the diversity of Indian sport, with Bhaker representing shooting and Sehrawat bringing his experience from one of India’s strongest kabaddi teams.
Sehrawat was also part of India’s gold medal-winning kabaddi campaign at the 2023 Asian Games in Hangzhou. However, he was not originally scheduled to be India’s male flagbearer.
Technical Issue Forces Last-Minute Change
Shot putter Tajinderpal Singh Toor had initially been selected to carry the Indian flag alongside Bhaker. However, a technical issue prevented him from participating in the ceremony.
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As a result, Sehrawat stepped in for Toor and joined Bhaker as India’s male flagbearer.
The change came shortly before the ceremony, but once the Indian contingent entered the stadium, the athletes focused on celebrating the occasion.
The Indian flag moved through the arena as athletes waved to the crowd, creating one of the memorable moments of the opening night.
Japan’s Culture Takes Centre Stage
The opening ceremony focused on Japanese culture, combining traditional performances with modern music, technology and visual effects.
The presence of Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako added importance to the occasion, as Japan welcomed athletes and officials from across the continent.
Nagoya had spent days preparing for the arrival of the sporting community. With the ceremony underway, the city officially entered the celebration phase of the Games.
For the athletes, though, the biggest challenge was still ahead.
India Look To Build On Hangzhou Success
India entered the Nagoya Games with the memories of its historic performance at the 2023 Asian Games.
The Indian contingent won a record 107 medals in Hangzhou, including 28 gold medals. That achievement has created fresh expectations for the team in the 2026 edition.
However, the new Games will bring different challenges and opportunities.
While established athletes will look to add to their medal collections, several newcomers will aim to make their mark on the continental stage. For some, a single performance, match or final could become a defining moment in their careers.
The opening ceremony offered athletes a chance to celebrate together before the competition begins in full swing.
The flags, lights and music set the tone for the Nagoya Games. Now, the focus will shift to the field of play, where India’s next Asian Games story will begin.