Modi inaugurates the 12th SAG in Guwahati

The mega sporting event will continue till Feb 16 in Guwahati and Shillong.

In his inaugural speech Modi said that, South Asian Games celebrats togetherness of all the SAARC countries.

“All round development is incomplete without sports. This sports event is perfect blend of teamwork, togetherness and talent,” Modi said.

Describing the Games as a springboard for the overall development of the North East India, India as a whole and the South East Asia, Modi asked all to play for Peace, Prosperity and Progress.

Around 3300 athletes of the eight participating countries including India, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nepal, Bhutan, Maldives and Afghanistan had took part in the vibrant colourful inaugural function of the sporting event.

The inauguration ceremony was started by the team parade and the participating nations, decked out in their traditional dresses made their way into the ground amidst huge cheers from the packed audience.

Each participating nations carried waters from one of their major rivers and the Indian Ocean.

The waters were later merged into the Brahmaputra, symbolizing the confluence of the nations and the way forward in harmony and togetherness.

The Flame of the 12th South Asian Games was brought into the grounds by Gagan Nareng and was relayed through by eminent sport personalities including Monalisa Mehta, Bhogeshwar Baruah, Anju Bobby Goerge , Krishna Poonia and Rani Nagpal.

Baichung Bhutia did the final lap and lit the digital flames in the centre of the ground.

The cultural show, which followed the flame lighting was a glittering spectacle showcasing the confluence of the digital and the traditional.

Immersing the grounds in a show of vivid colours and lights, the show started with the theme song of the Games, ‘Ai Prithibi Ek Krirangan’.

The song originally composed by Dr. Bhupen Hazarika, it was performed by artists’ Mayukh Hazarika, Lou Majao and others and spreads the message of peace and harmony through sports.

It was followed by a colourful display of the traditional dances of the region and song performances by artists like Zubin Garg, Angaraag Mahanta and Nahid Afrin.

Rich culture of the north eastern region had showcased in the inaugural ceremony.

On other hand, India had started their campaign in the mega sporting event with defeating Maldives in Woman volleyball on Friday.

India defeated Maldives in Woman volleyball by 25-9, 25-9, 25-10 sets.

Sri Lanka, Pakistan and Bangladesh also started their campaign in volleyball event.

(Reporting by Hemanta Kumar Nath)