New Delhi, 18 October (H.S.): The Indian contingent’s attire at the opening ceremony of the fifth Asian Para Games in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan, on Saturday offered a glimpse into the country’s rich cultural heritage. The athletes wore specially designed blazers featuring motifs inspired by Indus Valley Civilisation seals, the Sapta Sindhu region and the Indian tricolour, celebrating India’s nearly 5,000-year-old civilisation and enduring cultural identity.

The blazers feature illustrations of seals and ancient motifs associated with the Indus Valley Civilisation, one of the world’s earliest urban civilisations. These designs highlight the distinctive identity and artistic legacy of this ancient civilisation.

The collars incorporate the motif of Sapta Sindhu, symbolising the sacred land of the seven rivers and the legacy of the River Saraswati. The Indian tricolour has been placed on the blazer pocket, close to the heart, conveying a message of national pride and dedication to the country.

### 281-Member Indian Contingent to Compete

India is participating in the fifth Asian Para Games with a 281-member contingent, including 168 athletes — 112 men and 56 women. The Indian athletes will compete for medals across 11 sports.

The competition is being held from October 18 to 24, bringing together approximately 3,000 athletes from 45 countries. The motto of the Games is “Imagine One Heart”.

The Indian contingent’s attire is more than formal wear for the opening ceremony; it represents an effort to showcase the country’s historical identity and cultural continuity on an international sporting platform.

From the ancient seals of the Indus Valley Civilisation to the sporting arenas of Nagoya, Indian para-athletes are representing the nation with a sense of heritage, determination and sporting spirit.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar