Shillong: Japan kicked off the 20th Asian Games in Nagoya on Saturday, silencing critics who fixated on the event's messy buildup. The country used a colorful two-hour show to move past recent operational gaffes and cramped accommodations. Japanese Emperor Naruhito opened the games at the 30,000-capacity Mizuho Park Athletic Stadium. Empress Masako, Olympic Council of Asia President Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al Thani, and International Olympic Committee chief Kirsty Coventry watched on.
The ceremony centered on the theme Harmonic Heart Beat. A heart-shaped stage anchored the performance, representing the goal of connecting people from across the continent. Dancers formed the word WELCOME to show hospitality. The show highlighted local industrial might, featuring a Kabuki stage paired with a massive robotic arm. A Toyota-developed Accessible People Mover also made an appearance.
For the next 15 days, 11,000 athletes from 45 nations will fight for 469 gold medals. They compete in 43 sports and 71 sub-events. Basketball, football, and cricket matches already started. The event runs until October 4. Japan fields the largest team, boasting more than 900 athletes. India followed in the parade, led by shooter Manu Bhaker and kabaddi player Pawan Sehrawat. Bhaker wore a navy blue Saree while the men donned bandhgala jackets.
Violinist Taro Hakase performed as drones with heart-shaped wings lit up the venue. The Olympic Council of Asia’s Refugee team marched just before the hosts. The opening show aimed to distract from the organizational struggles that marred the lead-up. As a official release noted, the ceremony's centerpiece was the heart-shaped main stage which was chosen to visually anchor the theme of One Asia, symbolizing athletes and people from across the continent connecting heart to heart.
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