Para powerlifter Jhandu Kumar wins India's first medal at 2026 Commonwealth Games

Jhandu Kumar claimed a bronze medal in para powerlifting at the 2026 Commonwealth Games, becoming India's first medallist at the event. He achieved successful lifts of 181kg and 190kg to secure the podium finish. Kumar's path to the Games was marked by childhood polio and years of hardship, including working as an e-rickshaw driver to finance his training. His unusual name itself carries a history of struggle and ridicule, which he has since turned into a source of pride. Looking ahead, Kumar has set his sights on record-breaking performances at the Para Asian Games and Paralympics.