India, June 21 -- The 5th Asia Cup Bridge Championship got off to a colourful start with around 300 players from 16 Asia-Oceanic countries participating in the seven-day quadrennial event at the Horizon of Taj Cidade in Dona Paula on Sunday.

Patron of the Indian bridge fraternity and noted industrialist H. M. Bangur declared the tournament open in the presence of Bridge Federation of India (BFI) President Prasad Keni, along with delegates from the World Bridge Federation, participating nations from the Asia-Oceanic region, and other BFI officials.

Speaking on the occasion, BFI President Prasad Keni welcomed all players and delegates, stating that the event would be keenly contested.

Inaugurating the event, H. M. Bangur thanked all part...