On Sunday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi welcomed the Indian athletes who earned medals at the 2026 Commonwealth Games to his residence in New Delhi. During the gathering, he engaged with the athletes and held individual discussions with several of them. Medalist Narender Berwal, who secured silver in the men’s 90kg boxing division, shared an intriguing story from his boxing journey.
Event Context
Berwal reminisced about a conversation he had with a Pakistani boxer following his victory at the 2015 World Military Games. He noted that his opponent expressed surprise at the frequent mentions of the name Narendra throughout his life.
Player Focus
Berwal was one of ten Indian boxers who earned medals at the Commonwealth Games, contributing to India’s historic achievement of its highest tally in boxing at a single CWG event. This feat surpassed the former record of six gold medals, previously held jointly by England in 1934 and 2018, and by Canada in 1986. India’s overall medal count comprised seven golds and three silvers.
Prime Minister Modi took the time to meet with all the Indian athletes who won medals at the 2026 Commonwealth Games, expressing his admiration for their commitment, diligence, and role in bringing honor to the nation. Overall, India claimed 39 medals at the Games, featuring 13 gold, 17 silver, and nine bronze.
Team Analysis
Although India’s medal count at the Commonwealth Games was lower than in previous editions since 2002, it’s important to note the fewer events held in Glasgow. Despite this, India upheld its tradition of finishing in the top five, a streak that has been ongoing since 2002, with a fourth-place finish in the 2026 CWG. After 11 days of intense competition, the Glasgow Games concluded with Scotland officially passing the Commonwealth Games flag and ceremonial baton to India, which is set to host the significant centenary edition of the event in Ahmedabad in 2030.
Match Outlook
In a video shared on Prime Minister Modi’s YouTube channel, Pakistani boxer Berwal recounted a humorous encounter. He stated, ‘Your name is Narender, your coach’s name is also Narender, and even your Prime Minister’s name is Narendra. I’ve developed an aversion to the name Narendra.’ Modi couldn’t help but laugh upon hearing this amusing story.
