Bihar's Jhandu Kumar wins bronze to earn India's first para powerlifting medal at CWG 2026

Bihar's Jhandu Kumar won India's first para powerlifting medal at the 2026 Commonwealth Games, claiming bronze in Glasgow after lifting 190kg. The achievement capped years of struggle for the athlete who overcame illness and economic hardship.

Jhandu's journey to the podium included stints selling vegetables and working as an e-rickshaw driver before emerging on the international para powerlifting stage. He has battled polio and severe financial constraints while training, and his Glasgow podium finish is the result of sustained effort over many years. The bronze in para powerlifting represents a breakthrough both personally and for India in the sport at these Games.

On the day of competition in Glasgow, Jhandu lifted 190kg to secure third place and a spot on the podium. That lift was enough to earn him the bronze medal in his para powerlifting category and register India's first medal in para powerlifting at the 2026 Commonwealth Games. The result immediately drew attention back home to the athlete's unconventional road to elite sport.

"I feel as if I'm flying," Jhandu said, thanking his family, coaches, TOPS and SAI for their support.

Jhandu's background — from selling vegetables to driving an e-rickshaw — underscores the obstacles he overcame to compete at the highest level. Financial hardship and the effects of polio posed significant challenges during his development as an athlete, making the Glasgow medal a noteworthy milestone in his career.

The bronze medal in Glasgow stands as both a personal triumph for Jhandu Kumar and a first for India in para powerlifting at the 2026 Commonwealth Games. His success highlights the role of his support network and formal schemes in helping an athlete rise from difficult circumstances to international recognition.