Jhandu Kumar has won India’s first medal at the Commonwealth Games 2026, claiming Bronze in the Men’s Heavyweight Para Powerlifting event.
He registered a best lift of 190 kg and scored 130.9 points to secure India’s first medal of the campaign.
But the medal is only part of the story.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Jhandu Kumar sold vegetables and drove an e-rickshaw to support his family. Despite the hardships, he never gave up on his dream of representing India.
Today, he stands on the Commonwealth Games podium wearing the Indian colours. His journey is proof that no struggle lasts forever if you keep working towards your goal. The tougher the journey, the brighter the future can be.
This medal could also change his family’s future. Under the Bihar Government’s “Medal Lao, Naukri Pao” scheme, Commonwealth Games medal winners are eligible for a government job. We hope Jhandu Kumar receives the opportunity he has worked so hard for, giving his family greater security and opening the door to even more success.
Congratulations, Jhandu Kumar. Wishing you many more achievements in the years ahead. Keep making India proud.