Mumbai/Paris: A day after the Paris Olympics dazzled the world with its opening ceremony, India marked a historic milestone with the inauguration of its first-ever country house at the Olympics, India House. The star-studded event, held at the Parc de la Villette in the Park of Nations, drew some of India’s most renowned personalities along with IOC officials and administrators.
The opening ceremony was an unforgettable affair, commencing with Nita M. Ambani, IOC member and Founder and Chairperson of the Reliance Foundation, lighting a traditional Indian lamp to signify auspiciousness and goodwill. Among the dignitaries present were Ser Miang NG, IOC Committee member, P.T. Usha, President of the Indian Olympic Association, Jawed Ashraf, Ambassador of India to France, Jay Shah, Honorary Secretary of BCCI, and Olympic Gold Medalist Abhinav Bindra.
In her speech, Ambani expressed, “Welcome to the first ever India House in the history of the Olympics. Today we gather here at the Paris Olympic Games 2024 to open the doors to a dream, a dream that belongs to 1.4 billion Indians. A dream to bring India to the Olympics and our shared dream to bring the Olympics to India.” She further emphasized the symbolic importance of India House, calling it a potential tipping point for India and envisioning it as a home away from home for Indian athletes, a place to honor and celebrate their spirit and achievements.
Highlighting India House’s role, Ambani stated, “India House is envisioned as a symbol of India’s Olympic aspirations. We hope it becomes a home away from home for our athletes, a place where we honour them, salute their spirit, and celebrate their achievements. India House is not a destination, it’s a new beginning for India.” She extended an invitation to everyone in Paris for the Olympics, encouraging them to experience India’s beauty, diversity, and rich heritage at India House.
The opening ceremony featured a captivating performance by leading Bollywood singer Shaan, who energized the audience with his popular tracks. Guests were greeted with the vibrant beats of the Dhol, synonymous with Indian celebrations, followed by a stunning display of Mallakhamb, a traditional Indian sport, performed by visually impaired children from Mumbai.
India House promises a series of exclusive events curated by the Nita Mukesh Ambani Cultural Centre, including daily programming, panel discussions, celebrations of medal wins, exclusive watch parties, and meet-and-greet sessions with legendary Indian athletes.
India House will be open to visitors from 11 AM to 11 PM local time during the Olympic Games from July 27 to August 11. Tickets are priced at €5 per person and are available at India House Tickets.
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