India at the Olympic Games opening ceremonies | A look back

A look at how the Indian contingent has dressed over the years at the Olympics opening ceremony

While the world has been been divided over the semantics of France’s bold and flamboyant display put up at the Olympics opening ceremony in Paris, Indians on the internet find themselves united over their dislike for this year’s contingent’s uniform. 

Designed by Tarun Tahiliani, the uniform embodies the tricolour national flag. The sari, made of viscose crepe for the women athletes of the contingent, features digital ikkat print. The same is also repeated in the men’s uniform — a “kurta bundi silhouette...modernized with panel detailing, safari pockets, and rolled-up sleeves.”

Also read: Dressed to represent India | Debating ceremonial and corporate uniforms

While Tahiliani’s design follows a tradition of Indian women athletes historically donning saris, with the exception of 2020 Tokyo Olympics, the men’s uniform is a departure from the simple suit that has been a staple over the years. 

Here’s a look at how the Indian contingent has dressed over the years at the Olympics opening ceremony: