Two weeks ago the Australian government said there was a “high risk of terrorist attack” after two Taiwanese nationals were shot outside Delhi’s Jama Masjid, the capital’s largest mosque.Organisers have also been dogged by construction delays, corruption scandals and concerns over health and safety in the lead up to the event.
About 60,000 people filled the Nehru Stadium for the ceremony which featured 7,000 performers from across India. The showpiece depicted 5,000 years of India's cultural history in a pageant of music, light and dance.
Boos were heard in the crowd when Suresh Kalmadi, head of the Delhi organising committee, took to the stage to make his opening remarks. He thanked all 71 Commonwealth nations for attending, saying they had "showcased... faith in India" by their participation.
