Stunning? Awe-inspiring? Grand?

One could almost run out of words to describe the opening ceremony of the XIX Commonwealth Games 2010 Delhi. The spectators in a trance after the first part of the show were captivated as the tree of knowledge came to life. On behalf of the Bodhi tree, the bright and colorful lighting was choreographed by some of the most famous exponents of Indian dance. Tabla, sitar and mridangam players joined Bharatnatyam, Odissi, Kathak, Manipuri, Kuchipudi dancers Mohiniyattam and in homage to the tradition of the famous Indian guru-shishya. Gautama Buddha images are projected onto the balloon, as the centerpiece, changed color to reflect the changing seasons.

A sporting event is always about fitness and health. And what better way to focus on the health of a segment in the ancient Indian philosophy of yoga? Performers displayed some very difficult asanas to represent the famous yoga way of life - representing the union of mind, body and soul - as ephemeral as a man and Kundalini chakras represent energy rose from the ground ! As the lights dim, Buddhist chants, hymns, and Gurbani azaan sounded to remind the audience of famous diversity of India, which penetrates the soul.

Of course, what India without its famous railway? It is not only a lifeline that connects all corners of the nation, India is the Grand Tour an indelible part of our popular culture. The colors of India, the hustle and bustle of its markets, the variety of its popular culture and symbols that touch the lives of all came together to show the vitality of the harmonious society that is united in its diversity.

It was then time to pay tribute to the Father of Indian Nation, Mahatma Gandhi and Ahimsa. qualified artists depicting the life of the Apostle of Peace through spectacular sand drawings.

The audience was then treated to celebrate India - an exhibition of dance elegantly across the country. And just when you thought it could not be better, Oscar-winning composer and musician Mr. AR Rahman took his place on stage for the grand finale! The crowd was ecstatic as Mr. Rahman, who has the kind of adulation normally reserved for rock stars, makes his 2010 anthem Delhi, Jiyo, Utho, Badh, Jeet and his Oscar-winning Jai Ho!