The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) unveiled the long-awaited official ceremonial attire and playing kit for the Indian contingent participating in the upcoming 2022 Asian Games in Hangzhou, China, scheduled from September 23 to October 8.
The IOA organized an impressive send-off ceremony graced by Anurag Singh Thakur, the Union Minister for Information and Broadcasting and Youth Affairs and Sports, along with IOA President and legendary sprinter PT Usha, along with other senior officials.
The Indian contingent was represented by prominent athletes such as PR Sreejesh and Savita Punia in hockey, shooting sensation Manu Bhaker, and 2018 Asian Games shot put gold medalist Tajinderpal Singh Toor, among many other talented sportspersons from various disciplines.
The ceremonial attire, conceptualized and uniquely designed by the National Institute of Fashion Technology, comprises a khaki textured saree for women and a khaki kurta for male athletes.
The male athletes’ bandhgala jacket and the high-neck blouse for the women seamlessly blend Indian motifs and prints with quintessential Indian silhouettes, beautifully representing India’s rich cultural tapestry on the global stage. This attire also emphasizes sustainability through the use of recycled fabrics.
Speaking on the occasion Anurag Singh Thakur commented, “It’s not just a uniform; it’s a symbol of pride and identity for our athletes. The uniform proudly represents India’s self-reliance and showcases the country’s diverse heritage and design leadership. I am confident that as much as the team will represent the young and new India; we will ensure historic performances and return with the best medal count. I urge the country to stand behind our athletes and cheer for them.”
The playing kit, designed by the talented Kashmiri designer Aaquib Wani, who also designed the Indian cricket team’s jersey, draws inspiration from India’s diverse art forms. It serves as a visual tribute to the incredible diversity and unity that defines India, allowing each athlete to carry a piece of their home state onto the field.
IOA President PT Usha said she expects every member of the contingent to make the best effort to make India proud.
“We have waited long for the 2022 Asian Games and are delighted that India is sending its largest contingent of 634 athletes. We believe that this squad has the potential to get India its best medal haul as well,” she said.
“In the IOA, we have made every effort to place the athlete in the centre of our universe and ensure that they are well looked after,” she added.
Among the 634 athletes, the rowing team, with 33 members, is the largest unit representing India at the Asian Games. Additionally, a 15-member Esports team will make its official debut at the event.
In the previous edition of the Asian Games in 2018, the Indian contingent secured an impressive 70 medals, including 16 gold medals.
Delighted to unveil the Ceremonial Dress and Official Kit for #TeamIndia🇮🇳 for the 19th edition of #AsianGames, alongside MoS Youth Affairs & Sports, Home Affairs @NisithPramanik ji, President IOA @PTUshaOfficial ji, and prominent stakeholders in New Delhi today.
A cherishable… pic.twitter.com/DxI6gfuWlq
— Anurag Thakur (@ianuragthakur) September 5, 2023