Jhandu Kumar sets sight on Asian Para Games gold after Glasgow CWG bronze

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Indian para powerlifter Jhandu Kumar is targeting the top step of the podium at the upcoming Asian Para Games in Japan, driven by a desire to help India surpass its record-breaking tally from the 2023 edition in Hangzhou.

Speaking to ANI during an SBI Life Insurance event felicitating India’s 2026 Commonwealth Games para-athletes, the Glasgow bronze medallist expressed his gratitude. 

“It is very good that we have won a medal for our country, and we are getting so much respect. I am very proud, sir.”

Regarding his preparations for the continental event scheduled to kick off on October 18, the 28-year-old voiced confidence in his training routine. 

“The preparation is going well. This time, the goal is to win the gold medal. We will do something good. I have full hope. There is no pressure. We will do what we used to do before.”

India achieved a historic haul of 108 medals, including 27 gold, at the previous Asian Para Games. Jhandu remains determined to contribute to expanding that record. 

“We have to take it further (the Para Games 2023 medal tally,” he concluded.

Jhandu Kumar contributed to India’s historic CWG campaign

Jhandu earned his bronze medal in the men’s heavyweight para powerlifting division at the SEC Armadillo venue in Glasgow, registering a successful 190 kg lift on his second attempt for 130.9 points. Medals in CWG para powerlifting are assigned through a bodyweight coefficient calculation that standardises performances across varied weight classes.

The Indian lifter initiated his campaign with a 181 kg lift before increasing to 190 kg. His final attempt at 196 kg, which would have broken the Commonwealth Games record established at Birmingham 2022, was unsuccessful, placing him third overall. The podium finish stood as India’s maiden para powerlifting medal of the Glasgow Games.

India concluded its Glasgow campaign in fourth position on the medal leaderboard with 39 podium finishes (13 gold, 17 silver, and nine bronze). During the closing ceremony, Scotland transferred the ceremonial baton to India, with Olympic champion Neeraj Chopra, IOA President PT Usha, and Gujarat Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi receiving it as Ahmedabad prepares to host the 2030 centenary Games.

(With inputs from ANI)

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