Beset by allegations of organisational deficiencies, the South Asian Games saw another embarrassing gaffe at the final of the men's football event.
After a closely-fought final where Nepal came back from a goal down to defeat India 2-1 and win the gold, Nepal's national anthem, Sayaun Thunga Phool Ka (Made of Hundreds of Flowers) was being played. But right in the middle of the anthem, with television cameras filming the ceremony, it was cut off abruptly (video above).
What was as bad, the presenter promptly began to speak, being clueless that the anthem was not, in fact, over.
This did not deter the victorious Nepal players though – they gallantly continued singing their anthem, despite the absence of the music. It did, however, lead to plenty of criticism of the organisers for stopping a national anthem midway.
Limited-time offer: Big stories, small price. Keep independent media alive. Become a Scroll member today!
Our journalism is for everyone. But you can get special privileges by buying an annual Scroll Membership. Sign up today!