India to Host 26th Senior Asian Fencing Championships at Bharat Mandapam

The Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports has approved funding for the 26th Senior Asian Fencing Championships, set to occur at Bharat Mandapam from June 19 to June 24, 2026. This event marks the first competitive use of the venue, previously reserved for diplomatic events. With over 400 athletes from 30 countries participating, the tournament signifies a major advancement for India's indoor sports infrastructure. Star fencer CA Bhavani Devi will represent India, alongside a strong national team of 24 athletes. The championships will kick off with preliminary rounds on Friday, followed by the opening ceremony and knockout stages later in the week.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 18, 2026, 23:57 IST

Financial Support for Fencing Championships

The Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports has granted financial support to the Fencing Association of India under the Assistance to National Sports Federation Scheme for the upcoming 26th Senior Asian Fencing Championships, which will take place from June 19 to June 24, 2026.

Historic Venue for a Major Sporting Event

This championship will be the inaugural competitive event held at the state-of-the-art Bharat Mandapam complex in Pragati Maidan, which opened in 2023. Previously, this venue was exclusively used for significant diplomatic events, including the G20 summit.

A New Era for Indoor Sports in India

The transformation of Bharat Mandapam into a sports venue marks a significant advancement for indoor sports infrastructure in India. The venue is set to welcome over 400 elite athletes from more than 30 nations.

Significance of the Championship

Star fencer CA Bhavani Devi, India's first Olympic fencer, expressed her excitement, stating, “Hosting a tournament of this scale is a monumental milestone for Indian fencing.” She will compete in the women's sabre event.

India has been enhancing its reputation as a global host for multi-sport events, having successfully organized numerous international competitions in various sports. This championship will also serve as a precursor to the Commonwealth Games 2030.

Strong Indian Contingent for the Championships

The Fencing Association of India has assembled a formidable 24-member national team, comprising 12 male and 12 female athletes. This squad includes promising talents and Khelo India Athletes (KIAs) such as Karan Singh and Shreya Gupta, alongside established athletes like Bhavani Devi and Taniksha Khatri.

Championship Schedule

The Senior Asian Fencing Championships will kick off on Friday with preliminary pools and elimination rounds for the individual Men's Sabre and Women's Foil events, followed by the Opening Ceremony at 6 PM. The team knockout stages will commence on June 22.

*Full India Squad:

Epee Women: Taniksha Khatri, Prachi Lohan, Mitva Chaudhari, Yashkeerat Kaur Hayer

Epee Men: Sherjin Rajendran Shanthimol, Joseph Bennet, Shaurya Ashwini, Aloshious Koovakkal Joshy

Foil Women: Joys Ashitha Stalinraj, Naorem Mina Devi, Kanupriya Chawla, Sonia Devi Waikhom

Foil Men: Sachin, Sanasam Hemash Singh, Aditya, Tejas Manoj Patil

Sabre Women: Bhavani Devi, Shreya Gupta, Jefarlin J S., Shruti Joshi

Sabre Men: Karan Singh, Gisho Nidhi K.P., Lakshay Badser, Vishal Thapar.