Tokyo Olympics 2021 kicks off with glitzy opening ceremony; Check out pics!

An Olympics like no other opened sans the customary razzmatazz, the toned-down ceremony showcasing Japan's grandeur, rich culture, and heritage while reflecting the somber mood of a world ravaged by an unrelenting Covid-19 pandemic.

Japan's tennis player Naomi Osaka carries the Olympic torch in the Olympic Stadium during the opening ceremony of the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games, in Tokyo. Credit: AFP Photo

Naomi Osaka of Japan prepares to light the cauldron during the Opening ceremony. Credit: AP Photo

Artists perform at the Olympics Stadium, during the opening ceremony of the Summer Olympics 2020, in Tokyo. Credit: PTI Photo

Tradition lanterns at a show during the opening ceremony of the Summer Olympics 2020, at the Olympics Stadium, in Tokyo. Credit: PTI Photo

The Olympic flag is carried at the Olympics Stadium, during the opening ceremony of the Summer Olympics 2020, in Tokyo. Credit: PTI Photo

Fireworks illumine the sky after the lighting of the Olympic flame at the Olympics Stadium during the opening ceremony of the Summer Olympics 2020, in Tokyo. Credit: PTI Photo

Drones with lights create 3-D patterns at the Olympics Stadium, during the opening ceremony of the Summer Olympics 2020, in Tokyo. Credit: PTI Photo

Fireworks illumine the sky after the lighting of the Olympic flame at the Olympics Stadium during the opening ceremony of the Summer Olympics 2020, in Tokyo. Credit: PTI Photo

Naomi Osaka of Japan prepares to light the cauldron during the Opening ceremony. Credit: Reuters Photo