Tokyo Olympics 2020: Fireworks, flags, and face masks adorn the much-awaited Opening Ceremony

The opening ceremony of the 2020 Summer Olympics took place in the Olympic Stadium in Tokyo with mellowed pomp and grandeur.

Drones form a globe during the opening ceremony in the Olympic Stadium at the 2020 Summer Olympics, Friday, July 23, 2021, in Tokyo, Japan. (Photo | AP) 

Fireworks explode during the opening ceremony in the Olympic Stadium in Tokyo, Japan. (Photo | AP)

Dancers perform in front of the Olympic rings during the opening ceremony in the Olympic Stadium. (Photo | AP)

The toned-down ceremony showcased Japan's grandeur, rich culture and heritage while reflecting the sombre mood of a world ravaged by an unrelenting pandemic. (Photo | AP)

Chungneijang Mery Kom Hmangte and Manpreet Singh, of India, carry their country's flag during the opening ceremony in the Olympic Stadium at the 2020 Summer Olympics. India has a 228-strong delegation in Tokyo, including over 120 athletes. (Photo | AP)

A total of 19 Indian athletes, including flag-bearers iconic boxer M C Mary Kom and men's hockey team captain Manpreet Singh, besides six officials, participated in the ceremony. (Photo | AP)

Sue Bird and Eddy Alvares, of the United States of America, carry USA's flag during the opening ceremony in the Olympic Stadium at the 2020 Summer Olympics. (Photo | AP)

Yui Susaki and Rui Hachimura, of Japan, carry their country's flag during the opening ceremony. (Photo | AP)

Although there were no spectators, there were fireworks and music, from famous Japanese video games, to which each of the competing nations walked in. (Photo | AP)

The Olympic flag is hoisted alongside the Japan flag during the opening ceremony in the Olympic Stadium at the 2020 Summer Olympics. (Photo | AP)