The 31st Summer Olympic Games opened in the Brazilian city of Rio de Janeiro, with a low-tech but vibrant opening ceremony at the Maracana Stadium.
Acting Brazil President Michel Temer declared the Games open as fireworks lit up the night sky signalling the launch of the biggest sporting spectacle.
- The theme of the 31st edition of Summer Olympic Games was “World peace and Environment“.
- Key Facts the programme retraced the history of Brazil – the arrival of the Portugese, the African influence on its culture, the immigration of Arab and Japanese communities and the rise of great cities. Almost 1,500 artists performed in a colorful musical show which gave a glimpse of Brazil.
- Brazil, being the hosts, were the last to enter. India, which has fielded its biggest ever contingent, was led by flag-bearer and Olympic Gold medalist Abhinav Bindra.
- Leander Paes and Jwala Gutta were among the Indian stars. Delivering a message for planet earth, the athletes were given seedlings to plant. The seeds, representing each of the delegations that will participate in the games, will be planted and turned into a small Olympic forest in Rio.
- Before the ceremony, a world and Olympic record was set by South Korea in Archery Friday night.
In the Men’s Individual rankings round, Kim Woo-jin scored 700 in the 72-arrow ranking round to set a new record.
India’s Atanu Das was 5th with 683 points. He advanced to Round-of-64.
In the Women’s section, Deepika Kumari ended at the 20th spot, Bombayla Devi on 24th and Laxmirani at 43rd. They have also advanced to Round-of-64.
- In the Women’s Team rankings, the trio of Deepika, Bombayla and Laxmirani finished 7th and qualified for Round-of-16.
