Nagoya, September 19, 2026 – The 20th Asian Games officially begin today in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan, with the grand opening ceremony scheduled at the Paloma Mizuho Stadium (Nagoya City Mizuho Park Athletic Stadium).The ceremony starts at 6:00 PM local time (2:30 PM IST) and is expected to last approximately two hours.
Directed by Japanese filmmaker Yukihiko Tsutsumi, the event is themed around a “Harmonic Heart Beat,” symbolising the unity of athletes across Asia through a blend of culture, history and modern technology.Japan is hosting the Asian Games for the first time in 32 years (previously held in Hiroshima in 1994). More than 11,000 athletes from 45 nations and regions will compete across 43 sports for around 469 gold medals. The Games will run until October 4, 2026.
India’s Contingent and Flag-Bearers
India is represented by a strong contingent of 503 athletes (approximately 269 men and 234 women) competing in 36 sports, supported by a large team of coaches and officials. The total size of the Indian contingent, including support staff, stands at around 768 members.Shooter Manu Bhaker and kabaddi star Pawan Sehrawat will lead the Indian contingent as flag-bearers during the opening ceremony. Sehrawat stepped in at the last minute after shot-putter Tajinderpal Singh Toor was unable to attend due to a delay in receiving his ceremonial kit.India will look to build on its record performance at the previous Asian Games in Hangzhou, where the country won 107 medals, including 28 gold.
Some competitions, including teqball and certain cricket and soft tennis events, have already begun ahead of the formal opening.Organisers have faced logistical challenges related to athlete accommodation, using a mix of hotels, temporary wooden containers and a cruise ship. Officials have stated that issues are being addressed.
The official slogan of the Games is “Imagine One Asia.”The opening ceremony marks the formal start of 16 days of high-level competition across Aichi Prefecture and surrounding areas. Indian fans can follow the ceremony and subsequent events on Sony Sports Network and the Sony LIV platform.