Indian Olympics Association (IOA) this time has chosen former Olympic bronze medalist Mary Kom, and the two-time Olympian Manpreet Singh to be the flag-bearers representing India at the opening ceremony of the Tokyo Olympics 2020. For the first time, India will be having two flag-bearers, one male, and one female to ensure “gender parity” in the international sports event.
A silver medalist at the 2018 World Wrestling Championship, Bajrang Punia, has been selected to be the flag-bearer at the closing ceremony held on August 8.
“It would be a huge moment for me given that it is my last Olympics. Who knows I might even get emotionally overwhelmed,” said Mary Kom. After hearing IOA’s decision, Manpreet Singh said, “I think it’s a huge honour to be named the flag bearer for the opening ceremony alongside the incredible Mary Kom. I have always been inspired by her journey in boxing and personally for me, this is a big moment in my career…I thank the Indian Olympic Association for this great opportunity”
