The 2024 Paris Olympics kicked off with a grand and unique opening ceremony by the banks of the Seine. Opting for a change from the traditional stadium setting, the Paris Olympics saw all contingents arrive in boats, traveling a six-kilometer stretch of the river.
Around 85 boats carried 6,800 athletes from 205 countries along the picturesque Seine River, from Pont d'Austerlitz to the Trocadero — the esplanade across from the Eiffel Tower. More than 300,000 fans in over 100 grandstands surrounded the entire route, creating an electric atmosphere.
The opening ceremony featured thrilling performances that showcased French heritage. French-Malian singer Aya Nakamura performed renditions of her hit songs "Pookie" and "Djadja."
Lady Gaga, along with a troupe of dancers from the Moulin Rouge cabaret, featured in the opening ceremony and put on a flamboyant performance of Renée Jeanmaire’s “Mon Truc en Plumes." The evening also saw a comeback performance by Céline Dion apart from performances by other top artists.
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The opening ceremony included a fashion show, an incredible display of performances using water and an air show, celebrating everything French. More than 3,500 actors, dancers and musicians were seen performing on Paris’ historical sites, bridges and rooftops, turning the city into a grand stage. The performances made for some spectacular pictures.
Best pictures from the opening ceremony of the Paris Olympics 2024
#1 Fireworks in the colors of the French flag
#2 An airshow creating a heart above the city of love
#3 Performers demonstrating their incredible acrobatic abilities at the opening ceremony
#4 Lady Gaga performing at the opening ceremony
#5 The Indian contingent at the opening ceremony
#6 Fireworks at the Institut de France during the opening ceremony
#7 A performer rides on a metal horse up the river Seine
#8 Lights illuminate the Eiffel Tower during the opening ceremony
#9 A torchbearer runs atop the Musee d'Orsay during the Opening Ceremony
#10 Fans watching the opening ceremony from their balconies
Indian contingent off to great start, action-filled opening day
The Indian archers put on an incredible show in their ranking-round matches on Thursday, July 25. The men’s team finished an impressive third, while the women’s team and mixed team placed fourth and fifth, respectively.
After the spectacular opening ceremony, the Indian contingent will now witness their athletes compete in badminton, shooting, boxing, table tennis, tennis, hockey and rowing on Saturday (July 27).
