Nagoya: The 20th Asian Games commenced on Saturday with a high-tech Opening Ceremony at Nagoya's Mizuho Park Athletic Stadium, marking the official start of Asia's largest multi-sport event following a turbulent build-up.

The two-hour opening ceremony took place in the presence of Japan's Emperor Naruhito, Empress Masako, Crown Prince Akishino, Princess Kiko, and Olympic Council of Asia (OCA) President Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al Thani. The formal inauguration of the Games will take place in the presence of the Japanese Crown Prince.

India's 501-member contingent is led at the parade of nations by double Paris 2024 Olympic medallist Manu Bhaker and kabaddi star Pawan Sehrawat. Sehrawat stepped in as flag-bearer in place of shot putter Tajinderpal Singh Toor, who was unable to receive his ceremonial uniform in time.

Several sporting events had already gotten underway ahead of the formal opening ceremony. In women's cricket, the Harmanpreet Kaur-led Indian team secured a place in the semi-finals following a comfortable eight-wicket victory over host nation Japan on Friday. Meanwhile, in teqball, which is making its Asian Games debut, India remains in medal contention as Quimcy D'Souza prepares to compete for the bronze medal following a semi-final loss in the women's singles on Saturday.

India enters this 20th edition looking to build on its record-breaking campaign at the 2023 Hangzhou Asian Games, where the nation finished fourth in the overall medal standings with 106 medals, including 28 gold. (PTI)