Jhandu Kumar Celebrates Bronze Medal Win at Commonwealth Games 2026

Jhandu Kumar's Triumph

Para powerlifter Jhandu Kumar expressed overwhelming happiness after clinching a bronze medal at the Commonwealth Games 2026 held in Glasgow. His primary goal was to earn a medal for India.

In an interview following his achievement, Jhandu shared that he felt as if he was 'flying' after winning the bronze, which is his first significant medal. 'I feel like I'm flying. This is my first medal. The only thought in my mind was that I had to win. I just had to win,' he stated.

He also conveyed his heartfelt thanks to his family, coaches, and everyone who supported him throughout his journey. 'I'm very thankful for their support, allowing me to practice extensively and showering me with love. I feel great and will strive to improve in the future,' he added.

Jhandu expressed gratitude towards the Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS) and the Sports Authority of India (SAI) for their invaluable support and training facilities. 'I am extremely thankful to them. We train there, and in a way, this medal belongs to them,' he remarked.

Jhandu Kumar's Performance Details

Performance Overview

Jhandu achieved his podium finish with a best lift of 190kg, earning 130.9 points. He started strong, lifting 181kg in his first attempt for 124.7 points, then improved to 190kg in his second attempt, briefly placing him at the top of the leaderboard. In his final attempt, he aimed for 196kg, which would have set a new Commonwealth Games record established in Birmingham 2022, but he was unable to complete the lift, ultimately securing the bronze medal.

Other Indian Athletes' Performances

Additional Results

Earlier, India's lightweight para powerlifters faced challenges in their events. Ashok finished fourth in the men's final with a personal-best lift of 200kg, scoring 143.8 points. Paramjeet Kumar placed seventh with a lift of 176kg, earning 135.6 points. In the women's lightweight category, Jaspreet Kaur secured sixth place after lifting 100kg for 96.4 points, while Suman Devi also finished seventh with a best lift of 100kg and 88.4 points. Kasthuri Rajamani, unfortunately, did not record a valid lift in the women's heavyweight final, as all three of her attempts were unsuccessful.

Jhandu's bronze medal represents India's first achievement in para powerlifting at the Glasgow Commonwealth Games.