Paris is making history as it hosts its first-ever Paralympic Games, and is set to break barriers once again with a truly unique Opening Ceremony.
Stepping outside the confines of a traditional stadium, the celebration will unfold on the iconic Champs-Élysées and Place de la Concorde, transforming the heart of Paris into a stage for the world’s most inspiring athletes.
When does the Opening Ceremony start?
The opening ceremony is scheduled to begin on the 28th of August at 11:30 PM IST.
Where will the Opening Ceremony take place?
Place de la Concorde and the Champs-Elysées will be the stage for this groundbreaking celebration in the heart of Paris.
This bold move signifies Paris 2024’s commitment to inclusivity and accessibility.
“This ceremony at the heart of the city is a strong symbol illustrating our ambition to capitalize on our country hosting its first-ever Paralympic Games to position the issue of inclusion for people with disabilities at the heart of our society,” said Tony Estanguet, Paris 2024 President.
Under the artistic direction of Thomas Jolly, the ceremony promises to be an outstanding showcase, showcasing the Paralympic athletes and the values they embody.
“From the Champs-Élysées to Place de la Concorde, I look forward to creating this spectacle that will transform the heart of Paris, with performances that have never been seen before,” Jolly stated.
Unforgettable Moments for Athletes and Spectators
The opening ceremony will begin with a grand parade down the Champs-Élysées, consisting of 184 delegations from around the world and approximately 6000 para-athletes and officials.
Indian para-athletes Sumit Antil and Bhagyashri Jadhav have been named joint flag-bearers for the 84-member contingent of India at the Paris 2024 Paralympics.
The opening ceremony will then exhibit artistic performances at Place de la Concorde.
World Para Athletics C’ships 🥈 medallist shot-putter Bhagyashree Jadhav and Reigning World Record holder & Paralympic champion🏆 Sumit Antil named India’s flag-bearers for the #Paris2024 #Paralympics
They will be leading out an 84-member contingent, the largest ever for 🇮🇳 pic.twitter.com/virUS9deIW
— The Bridge (@the_bridge_in) August 16, 2024
Breaking Barriers, Building a More Inclusive Society
The Paris 2024 Paralympics aims to leave a lasting legacy by changing perceptions of disability and fostering a more inclusive society.
The Opening Ceremony, with its focus on accessibility and its central location, embodies this ambition.
As French Minister of Sport Amélie Oudéa-Castéra put it, “Enabling us, all together, to capitalize on this unique opportunity to change the way disabilities are viewed.”
The Paris 2024 Paralympic Opening Ceremony promises to be a groundbreaking event, celebrating the extraordinary achievements of Paralympic athletes and promoting a message of inclusivity and empowerment.
It has been reported that legendary Chinese martial artist actor Jackie Chan will carry the torch just hours before the start of the opening ceremony.
It’s a testament to the transformative power of the Games and a beacon of hope for a differently abled person to take up para-sports.
Where to watch the opening ceremony?
Jio Cinema and the Sports18 TV network will stream and broadcast the Paris Olympics opening ceremony for free in India.