BY MAHADEV DESAI
The 23rd Commonwealth Games were held in Glasgow, Scotland, from 23 July to 2 August 2026, after Victoria, Australia withdrew from hosting. This edition brought together 74 participating teams, including first‑time entrants Gabon and Togo.
For India, Glasgow 2026 marked its 19th appearance at the Games—and a historic one. India fielded a 125‑member contingent competing across ten sports and six para disciplines, including 77 men and 48 women. Notably, this was India’s largest para‑athlete contingent ever sent to the Commonwealth Games.
Athletics formed the biggest squad with 32 athletes, followed by boxing (14), judo (14), and weightlifting (12). The lineup also featured some of India’s most celebrated Olympians: Neeraj Chopra, Mirabai Chanu, and Lovlina Borgohain.
Scaled‑Down Games, Stronger Indian Spirit
Due to the scaled‑down format, several sports—badminton, table tennis, hockey, cricket, wrestling, and triathlon—were excluded. India had won numerous medals in these events in 2022, and their absence was expected to impact the medal tally. Despite this challenge, India delivered an impressive performance, finishing fourth overall with 39 medals:
- 13 Gold
- 17 Silver
- 9 Bronze
Medal Breakdown:
- Athletics: 10
- Boxing: 10
- Weightlifting: 8
- Para‑Athletes: 7
- Judo: 4
Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated India’s medal winners, praising their dedication, consistency, and sporting spirit. He noted that their achievements would inspire young athletes across the nation.
A Grand Opening in Glasgow
The Games were officially opened by King Charles III and Queen Camilla at the OVO Hydro Arena. King Charles described the Commonwealth as “a unique and extraordinary family of nations,” united by shared values and friendship. He applauded the athletes’ perseverance and the inspiration they bring to millions. UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham also attended the ceremony.
A vibrant Parade of Nations showcased 3,000 athletes from 74 countries. India marched proudly in tricolour, led by weightlifting icon Mirabai Chanu, who served as the flag bearer. She was joined by Olympic boxing medallist Lovlina Borgohain, who carried the ceremonial King’s Baton. Team Scotland, dressed in traditional tartan, received thunderous applause from the home crowd.
A Spectacular Closing and a Historic Handover to India
The Games concluded with a dazzling multi‑sensory ceremony featuring fireworks, music, and cultural performances. A formal handover was made to Ahmedabad, India, which will host the next Commonwealth Games—also the Centenary Edition.
Athletes from all 74 nations carried their national flags, with India’s Jaismine Lamboria proudly leading the tricolour. India’s cultural segment featured performances by Shankar Mahadevan and his sons Shivam and Siddharth Mahadevan, Rashmika Mandanna, Bhoomi Trivedi, Manushi Chhillar, musician Siddharth, and sitar maestro Rishabh Sharma. Their presentation included a stirring rendition of Vande Mataram, earning enthusiastic applause.
Cover photo courtesy: Mirabai Chanu/Instagram.
