Delhi opening ceremony on track despite chaos
AFP
NEW DELHI- The organiser of the opening ceremony for the Delhi Commonwealth Games said Friday preparations for the show were on track -- unlike chaos elsewhere with the start just nine days away.
"Preparations are going on fine, production wise we are on track, all the sound, light, dance recitals are all being rehearsed and technically everything is in control", opening ceremony chief Viraf Sarkari told AFP.
More than 6,000 performers and 60 choreographers have been hired for the premiere on October 3, which promises to showcase 5,000 years of India's history and culture.
The highlight of the ceremony in the main Jawaharlal Nehru stadium will be a reportedly nine-million-dollar white helium-filled balloon, which will be suspended 25 metres (80 feet) above ground level.
The balloon will house cameras, laser projectors and mirrors that provide a 360-degree viewing experience.
"The balloon is a technological marvel and it is being used for the first time in the world," said Sarkari.
According to local media reports, India will spend nearly 34 million dollars on the opening and closing ceremonies which will also feature Oscar-winning "Slumdog Millionaire" composer A.R. Rahman singing the theme song of the Commonwealth Games.
Rahman, who wrote the theme tune for the Games, had to rework the music after his first composition was poorly received.
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The highlight of the ceremony in the main Jawaharlal Nehru stadium will be a reportedly nine-million-dollar white helium-filled balloon, which will be suspended 25 metres (80 feet) above ground level.
The balloon will house cameras, laser projectors and mirrors that provide a 360-degree viewing experience.
"The balloon is a technological marvel and it is being used for the first time in the world," said Sarkari.
According to local media reports, India will spend nearly 34 million dollars on the opening and closing ceremonies which will also feature Oscar-winning "Slumdog Millionaire" composer A.R. Rahman singing the theme song of the Commonwealth Games.
Rahman, who wrote the theme tune for the Games, had to rework the music after his first composition was poorly received.
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