The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) has announced that India will continue the tradition of having two flag bearers for the Paris 2024 Olympics, following the precedent set at Tokyo 2020. PV Sindhu, the badminton ace, has been chosen as the female flag bearer for the Indian contingent. Sharath Kamal, the veteran table tennis player, will serve as the male flag bearer.
PV Sindhu: Female Flag Bearer
PV Sindhu, the badminton ace, has been chosen as the female flag bearer for the Indian contingent.
Sindhu’s Olympic Achievements:
- Silver medal at 2016 Rio Olympics
- Bronze medal at 2020 Tokyo Olympics
- First Indian woman to win two individual Olympic medals
Significance:
Sindhu’s appointment recognizes her consistent performance at the highest level and her status as one of India’s most successful Olympians.
Sharath Kamal: Male Flag Bearer
Sharath Kamal, the veteran table tennis player, will serve as the male flag bearer.
Kamal’s Achievements:
- 13-time Commonwealth Games medallist
- Participated in four Olympic Games (2004, 2008, 2016, 2020)
- Padma Shri awardee in 2019
Significance:
Kamal’s selection acknowledges his long-standing contribution to Indian table tennis and his role as a senior statesman in Indian sports.
The Role and Importance of Flag Bearers
Flag bearers play a crucial symbolic role in the Olympics:
- Leadership: They lead the country’s delegation during the opening ceremony parade.
- National Pride: They proudly display the national flag, representing the entire nation.
- Inspiration: Their selection often inspires younger athletes and showcases the country’s sporting heroes.
- Diplomatic Significance: They are often the face of the nation in international media coverage of the opening ceremony.
