Paris 2024 Olympics: An Unforgettable Opening Ceremony
27.07.2024: The Paris 2024 Olympics kicked off with a spectacular boat party on the Seine River, leaving behind the anxiety of recent terror scares. The event featured a mesmerizing performance by Lady Gaga, singing in French, and children receiving the Olympic flame from football legend Zinedine Zidane. PV Sindhu, in an ivory khadi georgette outfit with orange and green prints, and Sharath Kamal, in a minimalistic kurta, led the 78-strong Indian contingent.
Overcoming Challenges
After facing arson attacks, bomb threats, and city lockdowns, Paris breathed a sigh of relief as blue, white, and red smoke filled the sky, accompanied by the iconic ‘water curtains’ on Pont d’Austerlitz. The opening ceremony, starting just after 7:30 pm local time, marked the beginning of an extraordinary celebration.
A Unique Celebration on the Seine
The ceremony, the first to be held outside a stadium, showcased a mix of love, music, and sports. Lady Gaga’s performance, children taking the Olympic flame from Zidane, and cabaret performances delighted the audience despite the constant heavy rain. The French embraced their stereotypes and humor, fulfilling the creators’ promise of being unlike any other.
The event began with a montage of the flame being run into an empty Stade de France, highlighting that the Games would open on the Seine. Zidane, a legendary former captain, led the flame to its rightful place.
Spectacular Parade of Athletes
The parade featured 6,800 athletes from 205 delegations on boats sailing down the Seine. PV Sindhu and Sharath Kamal led the Indian team in a dazzling display. The performances and parades alternated, preventing any monotony.
Enthusiastic Parisian Support
Hundreds of thousands of Parisians lined the 6 km route along the Seine, cheering from gardens and balconies despite the rain. VIPs watched from the Trocadero under the Eiffel Tower, with some paying up to 2,700 euros for a spot.
High Tensions and Tight Security
The day began with arson attacks on train lines, a bomb hoax at Basel-Mulhouse airport, and grey skies. These incidents heightened anxiety, but the ceremony proceeded without a hitch. Security was tight, with 45,000 police and paramilitary officers on duty and snipers positioned along the river.
Unforgettable Finale
The event culminated with laser beams from the Eiffel Tower lighting up the Parisian sky. Despite the challenges, the opening ceremony shone brightly, celebrating Paris as an Olympic host in a unique and memorable way.