The athletes' parade had 71 women, dressed in sarees that not only represented different designs from the various corners of India, but also myriad patterns, colours and styles, carrying their country's placards.
The 619-member strong Indian contingent, which had Olympic gold medallist shooter Abhinav Bindra as the flag-bearer, drew the loudest cheers as it walked into the jam-packed stadium in the presence of a host of dignitaries, International Olympic Committee and CGF officials.
Photograph: Reuters
Image: India's flag-bearer Abhinav Bindra leads the Indian contingent at the opening ceremony