Indian para powerlifter Jhandu Kumar, who won a bronze medal in the men's heavyweight category at the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games, received a grand welcome upon his arrival at Delhi Airport. The 28-year-old athlete expressed his joy at securing India's first medal at the Games while also acknowledging his disappointment at missing out on the gold.
Jhandu Kumar’s performance and reaction
Speaking to reporters, the CWG 2026 bronze medallist said: "Thank you so much for all the love. It feels amazing. I secured the first medal for India and hoisted our national flag. It's a great feeling... There is a tinge of disappointment that I couldn't bring home the gold for the country. There are a few areas that need work, and I will focus on them... There was a minor technical error, and my coach was positioned a bit too far away, which caused the issue."
Jhandu secured bronze in the men's heavyweight para powerlifting event at the SEC Armadillo in Glasgow. Competing in Group B, he recorded his best lift of 190 kg on his second attempt, earning 130.9 points. The medal also marked India's first podium finish in para powerlifting at the 2026 Commonwealth Games.
Bodyweight coefficient system determines medals
Para powerlifting medals at the Commonwealth Games are determined through a bodyweight coefficient system, rather than solely on the weight lifted. Competitors from various bodyweight categories participate together in the lightweight and heavyweight divisions, with the final rankings calculated based on an athlete's bodyweight and highest successful lift.
Jhandu began with a successful 181 kg lift before raising his mark to 190 kg on his second attempt. He then attempted 196 kg in his final lift, a weight that would have eclipsed the Commonwealth Games record set at Birmingham 2022. However, he was unable to complete the lift and eventually finished third to claim the bronze.
India's medal tally after Day 4
After Day 4, India stood at eighth position in the medal tally with two silvers, one gold and a bronze medal. Australia led the chart with 39 medals, including 17 gold, nine silver and 13 bronze medals. The bronze by Jhandu Kumar provided a significant boost to India's campaign at the Games. (ANI)
