Jhandu Kumar Celebrated for Winning Bronze at Commonwealth Games 2026
Hero's Welcome for CWG Bronze Medalist
Jhandu Kumar, an Indian para powerlifter, was warmly welcomed at Delhi Airport after clinching a bronze medal in the men's heavyweight category at the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games.
Expressing Mixed Emotions
In a conversation with the media, Kumar shared his joy over winning India's inaugural medal at the Games, while also expressing regret for not securing the gold. He stated, "I am grateful for all the support. It feels incredible to have won the first medal for India and to have raised our national flag. However, I do feel a bit disappointed for not bringing home the gold. There are aspects I need to improve on... A small technical mistake occurred, and my coach was positioned too far, which contributed to the issue."
Path to Bronze
Kumar achieved bronze in the men's heavyweight para powerlifting event held at the SEC Armadillo in Glasgow. At 28 years old, he competed in Group B and successfully lifted 190 kg on his second attempt, earning 130.9 points.
The medals in para powerlifting at the Commonwealth Games are awarded based on a bodyweight coefficient system, rather than just the weight lifted. Athletes from different bodyweight categories compete together in both lightweight and heavyweight divisions, with rankings determined by their bodyweight and highest successful lift.
Jhandu started with a successful lift of 181 kg before increasing his attempt to 190 kg. He then aimed for 196 kg in his final lift, which would have surpassed the Commonwealth Games record set in Birmingham 2022. Unfortunately, he could not complete this lift and finished in third place, securing the bronze medal. This achievement also marked India's first podium finish in para powerlifting at the 2026 Commonwealth Games.
Current Medal Standings
As of Day 4, India ranks eighth in the medal tally with a total of two silver medals, one gold, and one bronze. Australia currently leads with 39 medals, which include 17 gold, nine silver, and 13 bronze.