New Delhi, July 25, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday congratulated para powerlifter Jhandu Kumar after the Bihar-born athlete won India’s first medal at the Commonwealth Games 2026, securing bronze in the men’s heavyweight para powerlifting event in Glasgow.
Taking to X after Jhandu’s podium finish, Modi praised the athlete’s determination and said his achievement had brought pride to the nation.
“A spectacular performance by Jhandu Kumar, who has opened India’s medal tally at the #CWG2026 by winning a Bronze in the Men’s Heavyweight Para Powerlifting event!” the Prime Minister posted.
Jhandu secured the bronze medal with a best lift of 130.9, finishing just behind England’s Matthew Harding, who won silver with 131.0. Nigeria’s Riluwan Idris claimed the gold medal after lifting 132.8.
Congratulating the athlete, Modi said Jhandu’s success reflected his strength, perseverance and years of disciplined effort.
“By overcoming every challenge and excelling on the international stage, he has made the entire nation proud and inspired countless Indians,” Modi said.
Jhandu had earlier topped Group B ahead of Uganda’s Dennis Mbaziira and Australia’s Ben Wright before his performance earned him third place in the combined classification.
The 29-year-old athlete’s journey to the Commonwealth Games podium has been marked by resilience. Born in Harnaut in Bihar’s Nalanda district, Jhandu was affected by polio since birth and grew up in a modest family. His father worked as a vegetable vendor.
He initially competed in para athletics in F55 shot put and discus throw events before switching to para powerlifting in 2017 after identifying his potential during gym training.
Jhandu’s medal has provided India with a strong start to its Commonwealth Games campaign and adds to the country’s growing achievements in para sports.
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