India made a promising start at the Commonwealth Games 2026 in Glasgow after Jhandu Kumar secured the country’s first medal by winning bronze in the men’s heavyweight para powerlifting event. The achievement marked an important milestone for Team India and showcased the country’s growing strength in para sports.
Jhandu Kumar Delivers Medal-Winning Performance
- Competing against some of the world’s strongest para powerlifters, Jhandu Kumar impressed with a successful 181kg opening lift before improving to 190kg on his second attempt.
- His best lift earned 130.9 points, enough to secure the bronze medal and open India’s medal account at the Games.
- The Indian athlete attempted 196kg in his final lift, which would have broken the Commonwealth Games record set at Birmingham 2022.
- Although the lift was unsuccessful, his bronze-medal finish was celebrated as one of India’s biggest moments of the opening day.
An Inspiring Journey from Bihar to the Commonwealth Podium
- Jhandu Kumar’s success is the result of years of determination and resilience.
- A native of Nalanda district in Bihar, he battled polio during childhood and faced financial hardships while supporting his family.
- Despite these challenges, he dedicated himself to strength training and para powerlifting, eventually representing India on the international stage.
- His inspiring journey from adversity to a Commonwealth Games medal has earned admiration across the country.
India Misses More Medals in Para Powerlifting
- India came close to adding more medals in para powerlifting.
- Ashok Malik finished fourth in the men’s lightweight category after recording a personal-best 200kg lift, narrowly missing the podium. Paramjeet Kumar secured seventh place.
- In the women’s competition, Jaspreet Kaur finished sixth, Suman Devi placed seventh, while Kasthuri Rajamani was unable to register a successful lift in the heavyweight final.
A Strong Start for Team India
- Jhandu Kumar’s bronze medal provides a positive start for the Indian contingent at the Commonwealth Games 2026.
- With several medal events still to come, Team India will look to build momentum and improve its medal tally in Glasgow.
- For Indian sports fans, Jhandu Kumar’s achievement is more than just a bronze medal—it is a story of courage, perseverance, and the power of determination.