Patna: Para-powerlifter Jhandu Kumar from Bihar’s Nalanda district has won the bronze medal in the men’s heavyweight event at the 2026 Commonwealth Games, securing India’s first official medal of the competition.
Representing India in Group B of the para-powerlifting event, Kumar delivered a consistent performance to finish on the podium. His achievement has been widely welcomed by the sporting community in Bihar and across the country.
Bronze Medal in Men’s Heavyweight Event
Jhandu Kumar successfully lifted 186 kg in his opening attempt before improving to 190 kg in his second lift. He finished with 130.9 points to claim the bronze medal.
His third attempt at 196 kg was unsuccessful, but his earlier lifts ensured a third-place finish in the competition.
From Adversity to the International Stage
A resident of Harnaut in Nalanda district, Kumar was affected by polio during childhood. Despite the physical challenges, he pursued para-powerlifting while taking on various jobs to support his family.
He sold vegetables and later drove an e-rickshaw during the COVID-19 pandemic. To continue his sporting career, he eventually sold the e-rickshaw and dedicated himself to training.
Training Opportunity Through Rajinder Singh Rahelu
Former Paralympic bronze medallist Rajinder Singh Rahelu identified Kumar’s potential and helped him secure training at the Sports Authority of India (SAI) centre in Gandhinagar.
The opportunity enabled Kumar to compete regularly at the national and international levels, where he steadily built an impressive record.
Previous International Achievements
Before the Commonwealth Games, Kumar had already earned bronze medals at the 2025 World Para Powerlifting World Cup in Beijing and the 2026 Asian and Oceania Para Powerlifting Championships.
He also set a national record at the Khelo India Para Games by lifting 206 kg.
Bihar Para Sports Association Congratulates Athlete
Bihar Para Sports Association President Shivaji Kumar described Jhandu Kumar’s achievement as an inspiration for para-athletes from the state.
General Secretary Dhirendra Kumar, Secretary Sandeep Kumar, Joint Secretary Lakshmikant Sahay and Usha Manaki also congratulated Kumar and wished him success in future international competitions. They expressed confidence that he would continue to bring recognition to Bihar and India through his performances.
