Kalinga Stadium set to host 22nd Asian Athletics Championships

Bhubaneswar: The stage is all set for the spectacular opening ceremony of the 22nd Asian Athletics Championships at Kalinga Stadium in Bhubaneswar on Wednesday evening.

The two-hour long colourful opening ceremony will be inaugurated by Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik.

About 500 artists from across the country will showcase the art and culture of the state to a global audience during the ceremony.

Besides, thrilling fireworks and a laser show have been lined up for the grand event. This will be followed by the march-past of the athletes.

The major attraction of the opening ceremony is the rendition of popular Sambalpuri folk song ‘Rangabati’ by music director trio, Shankar-Ehshaan-Loy.

Bollywood singer Shankar Mahadevan and ‘Thousand Hands’ dance group from Thailand will be enthralling the audience during the opening ceremony. Students of KISS in Bhubaneswar will also participate in the event.

The state government has taken all precautions to make the Championship a huge success.

The historic sporting event will culminate on July 9.

Meanwhile, elaborate security arrangements have been made for the smooth conduct of the global event.

About 800 athletes from 44 countries will participate in the championship.