Glasgow: India’s para powerlifter Jhandu Kumar scripted an inspiring success story at the Commonwealth Games 2026, winning the bronze medal in the men’s heavyweight para powerlifting event after overcoming years of financial hardship and personal struggle.
An emotional Jhandu dedicated his medal to the sacrifices he made on his journey to international success. Reflecting on his achievement, he said he had driven an e-rickshaw and sold vegetables to support himself while continuing to chase his dream of representing India on the global stage.
Jhandu said he never allowed difficult circumstances to weaken his determination. Despite the challenges, he remained confident that consistent hard work and perseverance would eventually earn him a medal for the country.
The Indian lifter delivered an impressive performance by topping Group B with a best lift of 130.9, finishing comfortably ahead of Uganda’s Dennis Mbaziira and Australia’s Ben Wright to qualify for medal contention.
In the overall standings, Nigeria’s Riluwan Idris secured the gold medal with a best lift of 132.8, while England’s Matthew Harding claimed silver with 131.0. Jhandu’s effort of 130.9 earned him the bronze, missing the silver medal by just 0.1 in a closely fought contest.
His achievement adds another medal to India’s tally at the Commonwealth Games and highlights a remarkable journey defined by resilience, determination and unwavering belief. Jhandu’s story has emerged as one of the standout moments of the Games, inspiring countless aspiring athletes from modest backgrounds to pursue their goals despite financial and personal obstacles.
Speaking after the event, Jhandu said the medal belonged not only to him but also to everyone who stood by him during his most difficult days. He added that the success has strengthened his determination to work even harder and strive for even greater achievements in the future, carrying India’s hopes onto bigger international stages.
From driving an e-rickshaw and selling vegetables to standing on the podium, para powerlifter’s perseverance brings India pride
Glasgow: India’s para powerlifter Jhandu Kumar scripted an inspiring success story at the Commonwealth Games 2026, winning the bronze medal in the men’s heavyweight para powerlifting event after overcoming years of financial hardship and personal struggle.
An emotional Jhandu dedicated his medal to the sacrifices he made on his journey to international success. Reflecting on his achievement, he said he had driven an e-rickshaw and sold vegetables to support himself while continuing to chase his dream of representing India on the global stage.
Jhandu said he never allowed difficult circumstances to weaken his determination. Despite the challenges, he remained confident that consistent hard work and perseverance would eventually earn him a medal for the country.
The Indian lifter delivered an impressive performance by topping Group B with a best lift of 130.9, finishing comfortably ahead of Uganda’s Dennis Mbaziira and Australia’s Ben Wright to qualify for medal contention.
In the overall standings, Nigeria’s Riluwan Idris secured the gold medal with a best lift of 132.8, while England’s Matthew Harding claimed silver with 131.0. Jhandu’s effort of 130.9 earned him the bronze, missing the silver medal by just 0.1 in a closely fought contest.
His achievement adds another medal to India’s tally at the Commonwealth Games and highlights a remarkable journey defined by resilience, determination and unwavering belief. Jhandu’s story has emerged as one of the standout moments of the Games, inspiring countless aspiring athletes from modest backgrounds to pursue their goals despite financial and personal obstacles.
Speaking after the event, Jhandu said the medal belonged not only to him but also to everyone who stood by him during his most difficult days. He added that the success has strengthened his determination to work even harder and strive for even greater achievements in the future, carrying India’s hopes onto bigger international stages.
