On Friday, India’s Jhandu Kumar won the nation’s first-ever official medal at the Commonwealth Games 2026, securing a Bronze in the Men’s Para Powerlifting (Heavy Weight) category.
On his second attempt, Jhandu managed to lift 190 kg at bodyweight, then cropped just short with 196 kg on his final rep. He had been at the top of the competition for much of the day, but was eventually outdone by him in getting a good result and finishing in 3rd position to earn a memorable medal for India.
Jhandu’s accomplishment represents yet another building block to his inspiring journey to success and resilience.
Jhandu was born in Harnaut village of Bihar’s Nalanda district and has been suffering from polio since birth, working as a vegetable vendor in the village. Sowing the seeds of success as a sportsman was difficult with the hardship of money and body, but he never gave it his all.
Jhandu started his sporting career in 2017 as a para athlete in the F55 category in the disciplines of shot put and discus throw (able to compete with a disabled friend), gaining multiple medals at the district and state level. After being suggested to change to para powerlifting after a state championship due to his love of strength training, he now trains in this field.
Since he couldn’t afford the needed food to compete at a high level, Jhandu started helping to support his family by selling produce. He even borrowed money from other people to buy an e-rickshaw to help his livelihood, even during the pandemic of COVID-19.
Jhandu’s success on the international stage wasn’t limited to the Commonwealth Games, as he claimed bronze at the Beijing World Cup 2025 and the 2026 Asian & Oceania Championships.
It is India’s maiden official medal at the Glasgow 26 Commonwealth Games because of his extraordinary journey.