In a historic moment for Indian sports, the Paris Olympics witnessed the grand opening of India House , the first-ever country house for India at the Olympic Games. The star-studded event, held a day after the Olympics' dazzling opening ceremony, was graced by numerous luminaries and dignitaries, marking a new chapter in India's Olympic journey. The opening ceremony commenced with Nita M Ambani, IOC member and Founder & Chairperson of the Reliance Foundation , lighting the traditional lamp.
This ritual, symbolising auspiciousness and goodwill, set the tone for the evening. Guests included Ser Miang NG, IOC Committee member; P.T.
Usha, President of the Indian Olympic Association; H.E. Jawed Ashraf, Ambassador of India to France; Jay Shah, Honorary Secretary of BCCI; and Olympic Gold Medallist Abhinav Bindra.
Nita Ambani ’s speech highlighted the significance of India House, describing it as a dream come true for 1.4 billion Indians. "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 million Indians. A dream to bring India to the Olympics and our shared dream to bring the Olympics to India," she proclaimed.
She emphasised the potential of India House as a tipping point for Indian sports, suggesting that it symbolises the country's Olympic aspirations and could pave the way for India to host the Olympics in the future. "It is time that the flame, which was first lit in Athens, lights up in our ancient land, India. The day is not far when India will host the Olympic Games.
May this be our collective resolve at the opening of the India House," Ambani beamed. India House aims to be a home away from home for Indian athletes, a place to honour, support, and celebrate their achievements. Ambani extended a warm invitation to all in Paris, "At India House, we welcome the world to experience the beauty, diversity, and rich heritage of India right here in the heart of Paris.
" The opening event was a vibrant affair, headlined by singer Shaan, who enthralled the audience with his popular tracks. The beats of the Dhol welcomed visitors, followed by a breathtaking display of the traditional Indian sport of Mallakhamb, performed by visually impaired children from Mumbai. India House, situated in Parc de la Villette in the Park of Nations , offers a unique experience with various exclusive events, daily programming curated by the Nita Mukesh Ambani Cultural Centre, panel discussions, medal celebrations, watch parties, and meet-and-greet sessions with legendary Indian athletes.
It will be open to visitors from 11 am to 11 pm local time during the Olympic Games from July 27 to August 11. India House, celebrating India at the Paris Olympics 2024, represents a milestone in the Olympic movement. Conceptualised by the Reliance Foundation in partnership with the Indian Olympic Association, it showcases Indian culture , arts, sports, technology, and gastronomy.
Fans can engage in yoga sessions and cultural workshops, discover traditional Indian crafts, and attend exciting watch parties. Making its global debut, The Nita Mukesh Ambani Cultural Centre has curated India-themed experiential programming and entertainment, ensuring a vibrant, enriching, and unforgettable showcase of India to the world. India House aims to foster a sense of community and national pride, showcasing India's sporting ambitions and making it a must-visit destination during the Paris Olympics 2024.
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