The Paris Paralympics 2024 began with a breathtaking display of color and hope on Wednesday, as the ‘City of Light’ hosted the Paralympics for the first time. The grandeur of the event was on full display at Place de la Concorde, with athletes and spectators captivated by the vibrant atmosphere.
This historic event comes just weeks after Paris hosted the Olympics, and much like the Olympic opening ceremony, the Paralympic ceremony took place outside a traditional stadium. The iconic Champs-Elysee served as the starting point for the athletes' parade, with contingents approaching Place de la Concorde, creating a majestic visual spectacle.
Team India’s Grand Entrance
The Indian contingent made a memorable entrance during the parade, drawing enthusiastic applause from the crowd, especially from Indian supporters. Javelin thrower Sumit Antil and shot-putter Bhagyashree Jadhav had the honor of leading the Indian team as flag-bearers, a moment of pride for the nation. Antil, who clinched gold at the Tokyo 2020 Games, aims to repeat his success in Paris, aspiring to join the elite list of Indians with consecutive Paralympic gold medals.
🎉 🎉 Excitement is in the air as the torch arrives in #Paris, signaling the final countdown to the #ParisParalympics2024! Let’s celebrate the incredible athletes set to inspire the world! 🏅🇫🇷
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The Indian team, consisting of 84 athletes, is set to compete across various disciplines, and hopes are high for a record-breaking medal haul. With 19 medals won at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympics, the best in India’s history, expectations are soaring for an even more impressive performance this time.
A Historic Start to a Promising Journey
The opening ceremony concluded with the lighting of the Paralympic cauldron, symbolizing the beginning of what promises to be an inspiring and competitive event. As the flame was ignited in a hot-air balloon at Jardin de Tuileries, the world watched with bated breath, eager to see what the 2024 Paralympics will bring.
India's strong presence at the ceremony is a testament to the nation's growing prowess in Paralympic sports, and the journey ahead promises to be one filled with hope and triumph.
Inputs by Agencies
Image Source: Multiple Agencies
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