The competing teams marched into the stadium in the final act of the evening. The Indian athletes trooped in after Iran with hockey skipper Sardar Singh leading out the smartly-dressed contingent.
The Indians were attired in black blazers with the women athletes dressed in blue sarees. The smiling athletes walked in waving the tri-colour. India have sent a nearly 700-strong contingent for the event and will take part in 28 disciplines.
The overriding theme of the opening was the unity of Asia and consequently the cultural show comprised four parts: Asia a long time ago; Asia connected through sea routes; Asia becoming family and friends; and One Asia, the future we meet today.