India's first medal at the Commonwealth Games: Jhandu Kumar wins bronze in men's para powerlifting
India opened its medal account at the Commonwealth Games with an inspiring bronze medal in para powerlifting, as Bihar's Jhandu Kumar clinched third place in the men's heavyweight category.
XtraTime Web Desk
India secured its first medal at the Commonwealth Games as Bihar's Jhandu Kumar clinched a bronze medal in the men's heavyweight para powerlifting event.
The 19-year-old lifter lifted a total of 190kg to finish on the podium. Nigeria's Rilwan Idris claimed the gold medal, while England's Matthew Harding took home the silver.
This is another significant achievement for Jhandu, who had earlier won bronze medals at the 2025 Beijing World Cup and the 2026 Asia-Oceania Championships.
Jhandu's journey to the Commonwealth Games podium is nothing short of inspirational. Born into a financially struggling family in Bihar, he was diagnosed with polio at the age of five. Since then, he has battled both physical and economic hardships.
His father works as a vegetable vendor, and Jhandu spent much of his childhood helping at the family's vegetable stall before heading to the gym for training. During the COVID-19 pandemic, he even drove an e-rickshaw to support his family while continuing to pursue his dream of becoming a champion.
His fortunes changed when national coach Rajinder Singh Rahelu spotted his talent and brought him to the Sports Authority of India (SAI), where he received professional training. That opportunity proved to be the turning point in his career.
Overcome with emotion after winning the bronze medal, Jhandu said, "I always believed that somehow I had to win a medal. I am grateful to everyone who supported me throughout this journey."
Jhandu Kumar's remarkable story of perseverance, resilience, and determination has now become one of the most inspiring moments of India's Commonwealth Games campaign.
