Maharashtra CM Celebrates Kabaddi Gold Medalists from Asian Games 2026

Indian kabaddi players Sonali Shingate and Aslam Inamdar met with Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis to celebrate their gold medal wins at the Asian Games 2026. Shingate shared her emotional journey from a silver medal in 2018 to gold in 2026, highlighting the challenges she overcame. Inamdar noted the CM's warm congratulations and his promise of support for future competitions. The article also reflects on India's impressive kabaddi legacy at the Asian Games, where the men's team has won gold in nine out of ten editions.

By Narendra Chaudhary Sep 30, 2026, 09:10 IST

Joyful Reunion with CM Fadnavis

Indian kabaddi athletes Sonali Shingate and Aslam Inamdar expressed their delight after a meeting with Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, celebrating their gold medal triumph at the Asian Games 2026. Shingate, a member of the women's kabaddi team that defended its title, shared that this victory fulfilled a long-held aspiration following numerous challenges.

Sonali Shingate's Journey to Gold

"I participated in the 2018 Asian Games and secured a silver medal. I aimed to compete again in 2023, having been selected for the team, but an injury forced me to withdraw at the last minute," Shingate recounted. "Returning to training for the 2026 Asian Games and ultimately winning gold has been a moment of immense pride for me. This achievement has realized my dream of winning an Asian Games gold medal, and I am ecstatic about finally competing in the event, which was a fantastic experience," she added.

Support from Chief Minister Fadnavis

Aslam Inamdar, representing the men's kabaddi team, noted that Chief Minister Fadnavis warmly congratulated the athletes and pledged his unwavering support. "He was genuinely happy for us, especially as we hail from Maharashtra. He assured us of his full backing for future competitions, encouraging us to continue winning medals," Inamdar stated.

India's Kabaddi Legacy at the Asian Games

The men's kabaddi team secured a 40-34 victory, while the women's team narrowly defeated Iran 37-34, successfully defending their gold medals. Since kabaddi's introduction in the men's competition at the 1990 Asian Games, India has claimed gold in nine out of ten editions, with a bronze medal in 2018. The women's kabaddi event began in 2010, where India has also excelled, winning four golds and one silver.