Indus Valley motifs feature on blazers as India brings 5,000 years of heritage to Para-Asian Games opening ceremony

The Indian contingent brought a glimpse of the country’s 5,000-year-old heritage to the opening ceremony of the Para-Asian Games on Sunday, with athletes wearing ceremonial blazers with motifs inspired by ancient Indian civilization.More than 100 Indian athletes participated in the ceremony, led by Paralympic medalist sprinter Simran Sharma and top shuttler Pramod Bhagat, who carried the national flag as the contingent marched with the tricolor.Ceremonial blazers featured seal prints from the Indus Valley, drawing on ancient script and motifs from one of the world’s oldest civilizations.“The Indian team came out in more than ceremonial wear – they wore 5,000 years of civilization. The ceremonial jacket of the Indian contingent is a tribute to our heritage,” said the Paralympic Committee of India.The blazers also featured SaptSindha on the collar, representing the land of seven rivers and the mighty Saraswati. The tricolor was prominently displayed on the pocket.India has sent a 281-strong contingent to the Games comprising 168 athletes – 112 men and 56 women – who will compete in 11 disciplines.The Games will end on October 24, with around 3,000 athletes from 45 countries competing under the slogan “Imagine One Heart”.India had the most successful campaign at the 2023 Asian Para Games in Hangzhou, finishing fifth in the medal standings with a record 111 medals, including 29 gold, 31 silver and 51 bronze.