The 2012 London Paralympic Games kicked off on Wednesday night with its highly-anticipated opening ceremony, as over 160 nations as well as 4,200 athletes are now set to be competing in the Games.

The theme of the spectator's delight was enlightenment, as notable physicist Stephen Hawking both educated and hyped up the Olympic Stadium masses at the prestigious ceremony. 

Hawking had spoken about the significance of human spirit and the effect it can have on achieving success.

"The Paralympic Games is about transforming our perception of the world.  We are all different, there is no such thing as a standard or run-of-the-mill human being, but we share the same human spirit.  What is important is that we have the ability to create ...however difficult life may seem, there is always something you can do and succeed at."

The sporting event was directed by Jenny Sealy and Bradley Hemmings who showcased "a sea of ideas" voyage, which included the discovery of gravity by Isaac Newton. The extravaganza also featured 73 deaf pro athletes and 68 that were disabled, among 3,250 other volunteers.

A look at the Big Bang had kicked off the opening and continued on with impressive sequences that included aerial flips by legless performers.

The chief of the London organizing committee Sebastian Coe had made the following comments regarding the essence of sports.

"Sport is about what you can do, what you can achieve, the limits you can reach, the barriers you can break. Sport shows what is possible. Sport refuses to take no for an answer."

CLICK HERE to watch the full version of the 2012 Paralympic Games opening ceremony.

Tags: Paralympics