Doha: A heavy downpour failed to dampen the spirits as the XVth Asian Games got off to a spectacular start with breathtaking fireworks and an eye-catching cultural extravaganza marking the opening ceremony at the majestic Khalifa Stadium in Doha on Friday night.
The official inauguration that was held in very windy conditions showcased the heritage of Qatar in front of nearly 50,000 spectators.
The Emir of Qatar, Sheikh Ahmad Al Fahad Al-Sabah, declared the Games open, setting the stage for the biggest ever continental multi-disciplinary sporting festival being held for the first time in a Gulf country.
Songs, dances and a stunningly executed three-hour show depicting a mixed blend of tradition and modernity enthralled the capacity crowd, providing the perfect launch for the quadrennial mega-event.
Athletes from 45 countries will vie for glory in 39 disciplines over the next two weeks of sporting extravaganza that will see several new heroes emerging and the old ones hoping to keep the spotlight on them.
After a pre-show entertainment, the formal function began with the arrival of the Emir of Qatar who then took his seat on a magnificent podium.
The welcome cast then re-ignited pyrotechnic flares to form the words "Al-salam alaikom", the standard Arabic greeting meaning "Peace be upon you".
After the welcome, the official flag party, formed by nine members of the Qatari armed forces, entered with the national flag, which was ceremonially hoisted, and the national anthem of the host country played.
The crowd was then treated to a variety of entertainment programmes depicting different themes based on the Arab heritage before the participating countries entered the arena in alphabetical order with the hosts bring off the rear.
The Indians, who had hockey player Sunita Kulu as the flag-bearer, entered the stadium after Hong Kong attired in traditional headgears and blue blazers amidst cheers from the spectators.
Indian playback singer Sunidhi Chauhan also had her share of the spotlight as she sang "Reach Out" - a tribute to the Asian Games family immediately after all the teams had taken up their positions at the centre.
Children releasing ‘doves of peace’ as a gesture of world peace and Olympic spirit followed it.
The top members of the Doha Asian Games Organising Committee then officially declared the Games open after speeches.
The orchestra played the Olympic Council of Asia hymn and the OCA flag was carried into the stadium. The flags of the OCA and Qatar were hoisted before the ceremonial oath was taken on behalf of all competitors.
After a 55-day journey of over 500,000 kms through 15 Asian countries - the longest torch relay in the history of the Asian Games - the flame of the Doha Games entered the stadium.
Five Qatari athletes carried it around the stadium before the cauldron was lit.
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