India’s Mohenjodaro-Inspired Attire Draws Attention at Asian Para Games Opening Ceremony

Mohenjodaro-Themed Blazers Put India’s Cultural Heritage on Display at Asian Para Games 2026

India’s contingent made a distinctive impression at the opening ceremony of the Asian Para Games 2026 in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan, on Sunday, October 18, with ceremonial blazers inspired by the ancient Indus Valley Civilisation.

The deep blue blazers featured golden motifs representing some of the most celebrated artefacts from the civilisation, combining historical symbolism with the contemporary spirit of international sport.

The designs showcased illustrations inspired by the iconic Priest-King sculpture and the Dancing Girl figurine. Ancient seals featuring symbols and script associated with the Indus Valley Civilisation were also incorporated, giving the outfits a strong connection to India’s archaeological heritage.

The collars carried the theme of SaptSindhu, representing the land of the seven rivers and the mighty Saraswati. Meanwhile, the Indian Tricolour was prominently displayed on the pocket, close to the heart. Together, these elements highlighted the country’s cultural legacy as its athletes joined the parade of participating nations.

India Sends 168 Athletes to the Asian Para Games

The opening ceremony marked the start of the fifth edition of the Asian Para Games, which runs from October 18 to 24. India has fielded a 281-member contingent, including 168 athletes—112 men and 56 women—competing across 11 disciplines.

Approximately 3,000 athletes from 45 nations are expected to participate in the continental competition, which is being held under the motto ‘Imagine One Heart’.

More than 100 Indian athletes took part in the opening ceremony, with para-badminton player Pramod Bhagat and para-sprinter Simran Sharma leading the contingent as flag bearers.

Their selection highlighted the role of established para-sporting stars as India began its campaign at the multi-sport event in Japan.

Simran Sharma Replaces Bhavina Patel as Flag Bearer

Simran Sharma was chosen to replace para-table tennis player Bhavina Patel as a flag bearer after the team management decided to prioritise Patel’s rest ahead of her quarter-final match scheduled for Monday, October 19.

The decision was influenced by the demanding journey to and from the opening ceremony venue, which was expected to take nearly six hours. Given Patel’s wheelchair use and the importance of her upcoming match, the team wanted to avoid unnecessary travel demands that could affect her recovery.

Satyanarayana, head coach of para-athletics, explained that the change was made to ensure Patel had sufficient time to rest and prepare for the competition.

He said the team had considered her match schedule and the time required for travel before deciding to make the adjustment. The priority, he added, was to ensure athletes were physically prepared and able to perform at their best.

A Celebration of India’s History and Sporting Spirit

With its Mohenjodaro-inspired designs, the Indian contingent brought a distinctive cultural element to the opening ceremony. The use of golden illustrations of ancient artefacts, alongside the Tricolour and SaptSindhu references, connected India’s sporting representation with its historic past.

As the Asian Para Games continue through October 24, the Indian athletes will compete across 11 disciplines against participants from 45 nations. The contingent’s opening-ceremony appearance offered a visual celebration of the country’s heritage, while Bhagat and Simran led the team into the competition with the national flag.