The second largest multi-sport event of the world -- the Asian Games -- has just got off to a flying start with the conclusion of the grand Opening Ceremony at the Asiad Main Stadium in Incheon, South Korea.
This is the 17th edition of the Asian games, where around 13,000 athletes, coaches and officials are participating, which makes it the largest multi-sport event, after the Olympics. There are a total of 36 disciplines, with 45 countries participating in the entire event. Out of these 36 events, India has confirmed their participation in 28 of them.
Yun Su-Yeong and Kim Seong-Ju, who are stars in South Korea, hosted the Opening Ceremony. They are also set to host the Closing Ceremony on 4th October. Unlike the 2014 World Cup in Brazil, the authorities in Incheon had decided to host the games during the night, making it all the more pleasurable to the eye.
There was a special performance by Psy, who performed his famous "Gnagnam Style", at the Opening Ceremony. Psy made his way into the Guinness World record as his single got more hits than any other last year.
The lighting and the artwork provided for some dazzling visuals for the audiences – both inside the stadium, and the ones watching on TV. Here are some of the best pictures from the Opening Ceremony.
Fireworks explode over the Incheon Asiad Main Stadium during the opening ceremony of the 17th Asian Games.
The flame for the 17th Asian Games is lit during the opening ceremony at the Incheon Asiad Main Stadium.
Fireworks explode above the flame for the 17th Asian Games during the opening ceremony at the Incheon Asiad Main Stadium September.
South Korean singer Psy performs during the opening ceremony of the 17th Asian Games in Incheon.
Opera singer Sumi Jo performs during the opening ceremony of the 17th Asian Games.
Palestine announces their arrival at the Asiads.
South Korean tennis player Lee Hyung-taik carries the torch during the Opening Ceremony of the 17th Asian Games.
Flag bearer of India Sardar Singh leads the team into the Opening Ceremony of the 17th Asian Games.
The North Korean Flag flies in South Korea, as their Government has allowed the flag to be flown in the country during the Asian Games. Normally the display of the North Korean flag is banned in South Korea.
South Korean rhythmic gymnast Kim Min rolls a hoop during the opening ceremony of the 17th Asian Games
Pictures Courtesy: Reuters.
