Hangzhou, China – The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) has unveiled the official ceremonial dress and sportswear for the Indian contingent participating in the highly anticipated 2022 Asian Games, set to take place in Hangzhou, China, from September 23 to October 8. The revelation was accompanied by a splendid send-off ceremony graced by esteemed guests, including Union Minister for Information and Broadcasting and Youth Affairs and Sports, Anurag Singh Thakur, and IOA President and legendary sprinter PT Usha, among other dignitaries.
The Indian contingent, known for its outstanding performance in the previous edition of the Asian Games in 2018, where they clinched a remarkable 70 medals, including 16 gold, is gearing up for another triumphant campaign.
The Captivating Ceremonial Dress
The ceremonial dress, a testament to India’s rich cultural heritage and design innovation, was conceived and meticulously crafted by the National Institute of Fashion Technology. For women, it features a khaki textured saree, while the male players will don a khaki kurta. The distinctive bandhgala jacket worn by male athletes and the elegant high-neck blouse for women seamlessly blend Indian motifs and prints with quintessential Indian silhouettes. This unique attire showcases India’s cultural tapestry on the global stage and places a strong emphasis on sustainability with its use of recycled fabrics.
Speaking at the unveiling ceremony, Anurag Singh Thakur expressed, “It’s not just a uniform; it’s a symbol of pride and identity for our athletes. The uniform proudly represents India’s self-reliance and showcases the country’s diverse heritage and design leadership. I am confident that, just as the team represents the young and new India, we will witness historic performances and a remarkable medal count. I urge the nation to rally behind our athletes and cheer for them.”
Stylish Sportswear
The sportswear, meticulously designed by Kashmiri designer Aaquib Wani, who has previously designed the Indian cricket team’s jersey, pays homage to India’s rich cultural diversity. Inspired by the country’s various art forms, it serves as a visual tribute to the incredible unity in diversity that defines India. Each athlete will carry a piece of their home state with them onto the field, symbolizing the collective strength of the Indian contingent.
IOA President PT Usha expressed her optimism about India’s prospects at the 2022 Asian Games, saying, “We have eagerly awaited the 2022 Asian Games and are delighted that India is sending its largest-ever contingent of 634 athletes. We believe that this squad has the potential to secure India’s best-ever medal haul.”
She added, “In the IOA, we have made every effort to place the athlete at the center of our universe and ensure that they are well taken care of.”
Diverse Representations
The Indian contingent heading to Hangzhou boasts a wide array of athletes from various disciplines. Rowing, with 33 members, forms one of the largest units after athletics, as they aim to stake their claim on the coveted medals. Additionally, a 15-member Esports team will make its official debut at the Asian Games, highlighting the ever-evolving landscape of sports.
As India gears up for the 2022 Asian Games, the nation is eagerly anticipating another outstanding performance, as the athletes don the elegant ceremonial dress and sportswear that encapsulate India’s spirit of unity in diversity.