The Asian Games opened on Saturday (September 19, 2026) in Nagoya, Japan, with an opening ceremony in which the Indian contingent took part, led by Manu Bhaker and Pawan Sehrawat.
Shot-put gold medallist Tajinderpal Singh Toor was the original choice for the male flagbearer, but he did not receive his official ceremonial kit and could not attend the event.
Toor, who is aiming for his third straight Asian Games gold in shot put, was replaced by kabaddi player Pawan Sehrawat.
Shooter Manu Bhaker, who won two bronze medals at the Paris Olympics, was the female flagbearer.
ALSO READ | Editorial on the Asian Games 2026In the last Asian Games in Hangzhou, in 2023, India won a record 106 medals overall, including 28 gold.
The Asian Games opened on Saturday (September 19, 2026) in Nagoya, Japan, with an opening ceremony in which the Indian contingent took part, led by Manu Bhaker and Pawan Sehrawat.
Shot-put gold medallist Tajinderpal Singh Toor was the original choice for the male flagbearer, but he did not receive his official ceremonial kit and could not attend the event. Toor, who is aiming for his third straight Asian Games gold in shot put, was replaced by kabaddi player Pawan Sehrawat. Shooter Manu Bhaker, who won two bronze medals at the Paris Olympics, was the female flagbearer.
ALSO READ | Editorial on the Asian Games 2026
In the last Asian Games in Hangzhou, in 2023, India won a record 106 medals overall, including 28 gold.
