IT WAS completely India’s Day. India proved Commonwealth detractors wrong by showcasing its capacity for hosting a mega event. The much awaited gala inaugural of the Commonwealth Games took place in nation’s capital on 3 October, 2010 at 7 pm with all roads leading to Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium.
More than one lakh security personnel were guarding New Delhi during the biggest-ever Commonwealth Games that drew nearly 7,000 athletes and team officials from around the world and Delhi looked like a virtual security fortress with markets and commercial establishments closed for the day.
Around 80,000 policemen and 20,000 paramilitary troops, 1,500 elite commandos and snipers, 100 anti-sabotage teams and 15 bomb disposal squads were deployed for duty for the biggest sports event India has hosted since the 1982 Asian Games. The whole of Delhi was in a security blanket and looked bullet proof from all sides.
Military helicopters hovered over the Nehru Stadium and the athletes' village which houses visitors from 71 countries and territories that form the Commonwealth community. It was multi-layered and multi dimensional security arrangement for all. Indian authorities had taken unprecedented security measures due to fears of possible terrorist attacks and following statements from participating countries including Australia which said the Games could be a target for terrorists.
Former President Dr A.P.J Abdul Kalam, President Pratibha Patil, Prince Charles and Prime Minister Manmohan Singh witnessed the three hour ceremony with various dignitaries from the participating countries present there. This is the first time the Games are being opened by two dignitaries as part of a compromise pact between the hosts and the Commonwealth Games Federation. In another first for the Games, the athletes walked with their respective countries' contingents and took their seats alongside guests.
The Aerostat, a helium balloon and one of star attractions lifted off after a pyrotechnical display of fireworks that followed the playing of the national anthem. After the first segment of the opening ceremony that lasted for 12 minutes, singer Hariharan sang Swagatam (Welcome all) along with students from different schools of Delhi, who showcased the art of mehndi (henna) painting white sheets with it to exhibit hands full of artistic designs.
The performance was followed by the march past as the 6,700 athletes from the 71 countries made their entry into the stadium. They were led by ladies showcasing 71 Indian dresses, a sight itself to watch. The Pakistani and Sri Lankans contingent were greeted with a huge cheer. But as expected, the whole 60,000-strong crowd and the dignitaries gave the host contingent a standing ovation as they were led in by Olympic Gold medalist Abhinav Bindra.
Boxer Vijender Singh entered with Queen’s Baton in stadium and in last lap, Sushil Kumar handed it over to Prince Charles who read the message of Queen. Ace shooter Abhinav Bindra took oath on behalf of athletes which was followed by flag hosting ceremony. There were another six segments Tree of Knowledge ,Yoga, Great Indian Journey and Oscar winning composer A.R. Rahman's rendition of the CWG anthem 'Jiyo Utho Badho Jeeto' during three-hour long ceremony.The ceremony concluded around 11 PM.
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