Indian weightlifter Raja Muthupandi won the silver medal in the men’s 65kg event at the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow [1, 2].
The achievement marks a significant podium finish for India in the weightlifting discipline, strengthening the country's standing in the regional games as athletes prepare for future Olympic cycles.
Muthupandi secured the silver medal after lifting a combined total of 286kg [1]. He finished second in a competitive field that saw high-performance lifts from athletes across the Commonwealth.
Malaysia’s Muhamad Aznil Bidin took the gold medal, setting a new Games record with a total lift of 299kg [2]. The gap between first and second place was 13kg, highlighting the dominant performance by the Malaysian lifter.
Papua New Guinea’s Morea Baru earned the bronze medal with a combined total of 282kg [2]. Muthupandi's performance placed him four kilograms ahead of Baru, securing his position on the podium.
The event took place in Glasgow, Scotland, as part of the 2026 Commonwealth Games schedule [1, 2]. The competition featured athletes from various member nations competing for titles across multiple weight classes.
Following the win, Prime Minister Modi hailed the achievement, and Chief Minister Vijay said a reward would be announced for the athlete [1]. These reactions underscore the national importance placed on success at the Commonwealth Games.
“Raja Muthupandi won the silver medal in the men’s 65kg event at the 2026 Commonwealth Games.”
Muthupandi's silver medal serves as a critical benchmark for Indian weightlifting in the 65kg category. By finishing within a competitive margin of a Games-record performance, the athlete demonstrates a level of strength that positions India as a top contender for the 2028 Olympics.
