Dear Editor,
The 19th edition of the Commonwealth Games came to an end on Thursday. Caribbean nations did not do that well (combined 22 medals – 5 gold, 9 silver, 8 bronze) with our own Guyana winning just a bronze – amidst a tremendous and well-appreciated effort. But it was a games to remember with the athletes having a fun time and India showing the world it is in the top class category that can host an international Olympic-style event. Participants from all countries and territories of the British Commonwealth praised the hosts for an extravagant event.
Although most of the world was worried the games would not come off because of problems with getting the venues ready on time, India came good, beaming with pride with the opening and closing ceremonies. Top officials of the Commonwealth Games Committee showered lavish praises on India, a turn-around from the preceding weeks of negative comments. Guyanese and other Caribbean people I spoke with said the opening and closing ceremonies were among the best they had seen for any olympics. They noted India put on a spectacular show with a dazzling display of pageantry and technical wizardry.
Commonwealth Games Federation President Michael Fennell, described the games as a success. “The competitions were held on schedule and the athletes were happy throughout their stay in Delhi. Some of the venues have been especially good.”
International Aquatics Federation President, Dr Julio Cesar Maglione, praised India for its swimming pool. “It is unlike any other Olympic pool, I have seen. It is nice that India has built such an excellent facility in connection with the Commonwealth Games.”
Secretary-General of the Organizing Committee Lalit Bhanot, also described the games as a success. He said “the athletes and officials would go back home with pleasant memories of their short stay in Delhi. What will ever remain etched in memory will be the great show put by our athletes in various disciplines. It is indeed a great feel-good factor.”
The opening ceremony of the games was presided over by Indian President Prathiba Patil and Prince Charles. Charles’s younger brother, Prince Edward, brought the curtain down during the closing ceremony. The ceremonies alone proved India can stage world class games.
The ceremonies surpassed all expectations, according to many who were critical of the facilities only a week earlier. India badly wanted to project its image as an emerging economic powerhouse and a modern nation to counter the preceding weeks of bad press, and she succeeded with the ceremonies.
During the opening and closing ceremonies, the nation’s ancient and recent histories were projected on the global stage for two billion viewers to watch on TV. India’s unique cultural (dance, music, yoga, martial arts, acrobatics) and ethnic features were on display. Traditional classical dancers showcased ancient and modern dance forms. Great musicians also played the lovely sitar and tabla. Popular singer and musician, AR Rahman of Slum Lord Millionaire Oscar fame, performed the games theme song. The highlight of both events was the laser shows and the aerostat balloon that lit up the giant Nehru Stadium projecting India’s advanced technology. Spectators roared lustily during all the presentations. And at the conclusion of each ceremony, the night skies were lit up spectacular fireworks. Thanks and Goodbye Delhi!
Yours faithfully,
Vishnu Bisram
