India’s campaign at the Commonwealth Games has been filled with unforgettable performances, emotional victories and inspiring comeback stories. From record-breaking lifts to historic medals, Indian athletes have continued to showcase their determination on the biggest stage.
Here are five standout moments from India’s Commonwealth Games journey this week.
Sharmila Dhankar Ends India’s 20-Year Para Athletics Medal Drought
One of the biggest highlights came from Sharmila Dhankar, who ended India’s 20-year wait for a Commonwealth Games medal in para athletics.
Competing in the Women’s Shot Put F57 event, Sharmila produced a season-best throw of 9.81 metres to clinch the gold medal. Adding to the celebrations, Shilpa K. Shyla received an upgraded bronze medal, giving India its first-ever double podium finish in Commonwealth Games para athletics.
Sarvesh Kushare Misses Gold by the Finest Margin
Indian high jumper Sarvesh Kushare came agonisingly close to winning gold in the men’s high jump event.
Sarvesh and Jamaica’s Romaine Beckford both cleared 2.25 metres, but the Jamaican athlete claimed gold on countback. Despite narrowly missing the top spot, Sarvesh created history by winning silver, India’s best-ever Commonwealth Games finish in the men’s high jump.
Ajay Babu Follows His Father’s Legacy
Weightlifter Ajay Babu continued a remarkable family tradition by stepping onto the Commonwealth Games podium.
The 21-year-old won the men’s 79kg silver medal after lifting a combined 330kg, missing the gold by just 1kg. His achievement came 16 years after his father, Srinivasa Rao, won a bronze medal at the 2010 Delhi Commonwealth Games, making it a proud father-son sporting legacy.
Electrician’s Daughter Gyaneshwari Yadav Wins Silver
Another inspiring story came from Gyaneshwari Yadav, whose journey from humble beginnings to the Commonwealth Games podium captured hearts across the country.
The daughter of an electrician, Gyaneshwari produced a personal-best total lift of 199kg in the women’s 53kg weightlifting event to claim the silver medal. She also became only the third athlete from Chhattisgarh to win a Commonwealth Games medal.
Bindyarani Devi Shines in a New Weight Category
Indian weightlifter Bindyarani Devi once again proved her consistency on the international stage.
After winning silver at the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games in the 55kg category, she moved up to the 58kg division this year and lifted a total of 199kg to secure the bronze medal.
The medal marked her second Commonwealth Games podium finish, highlighting her ability to adapt and continue delivering success at the highest level.
India’s Medal Charge Continues
From historic para athletics achievements and heartbreaking near misses to inspiring family legacies and remarkable comeback stories, India’s athletes have once again demonstrated resilience, determination and excellence at the Commonwealth Games.
Their performances continue to inspire millions and reinforce India’s growing strength across multiple sporting disciplines on the global stage.
