Anecdotes and Triumphs: PM Modi Shares Laughs and Reflects on Commonwealth Games Success
Indian medallists recount memorable moments, including a Pakistani boxer’s ‘Narendra’ dilemma and a Kargil Day dedication.
Narender Berwal and PM Narendra Modi (Video grabs)
NEW DELHI: A light-hearted interaction between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and India’s Commonwealth Games 2026 medallists on Sunday saw an amusing anecdote shared by heavyweight boxer Narender Berwal, leaving the Prime Minister in splits. The gathering at the Prime Minister’s residence in New Delhi was a celebration of India’s remarkable performance, where athletes recounted their most cherished moments from the Glasgow campaign.
Berwal, who clinched a silver medal in the men’s 90+kg category, recounted an unusual encounter from the 2015 World Military Games. After defeating a Pakistani opponent, the boxer revealed his adversary’s rather unique frustration, centered around the prevalence of the name ‘Narender’ in his life.
‘Mujhe Narendra naam se nafrat ho gayi hai’
Recalling the memorable exchange with Prime Minister Modi, Berwal narrated the Pakistani boxer’s bewildered reaction: “Pakistani boxer said to me, ‘Aapka naam Narender hai, aapke coach ka naam Narender hai, aapke Pradhan Mantri ka naam Narendra hai. Mujhe Narendra naam se nafrat ho gayi hai‘…” This humorous confession underscored the unexpected connections forged in the heat of international competition.
The interaction offered a glimpse into the camaraderie and personal triumphs behind the medals. Prime Minister Modi extended his heartfelt congratulations to the athletes for their stellar performances, engaging with them as they shared stories that were both inspiring and often, as in Berwal’s case, highly entertaining.
Berwal’s silver was a significant contribution to India’s historic boxing campaign at the Commonwealth Games. The Indian boxing contingent returned from Glasgow with an unprecedented haul of 10 medals, comprising seven golds and three silvers – marking their best-ever performance at the Games.
Overall, India concluded its Glasgow campaign fourth on the medal tally with a total of 39 medals – 13 gold, 17 silver, and nine bronze. This impressive achievement was made despite the nation competing with a smaller contingent and a reduced sporting programme, highlighting the resilience and talent of the Indian athletes.
Jadumani’s Kargil connection
While Berwal’s story provided laughter, another boxer, Jadumani Singh, shared a more poignant and patriotic moment from Glasgow. Jadumani recounted his emotional victory over a Pakistani opponent on Kargil Vijay Diwas, adding a layer of profound significance to his achievement.
Jadumani, a silver medallist in the men’s 55kg category, secured a decisive 5-0 win against Pakistan’s Sumama Rehman in the round of 16. Being associated with the Indian Army, the date of his victory resonated deeply with him, as he explained to Prime Minister Modi:
“It was Kargil Day. The day I fought against Pakistan was on that day. Being from the Indian Army, I was very determined that I had to beat Pakistan. I defeated them 5-0 and dedicated it to our Indian Army heroes,” Jadumani stated, his voice reflecting immense pride.
Prime Minister Modi was visibly moved by Jadumani’s dedication, acknowledging the profound impact of the victory. “Remembering that, especially since you are from the forces yourself… I truly believe the sentiment you expressed, dedicating your medal to the Kargil winners, added extra glory to that victory. And you defeated exactly the one you were supposed to!” Modi remarked, praising the boxer’s spirit and commitment.
The Glasgow Games, after 11 days of intense competition, concluded with Scotland symbolically handing over the Commonwealth Games flag and the ceremonial baton to India. The nation is set to host the prestigious 2030 edition in Ahmedabad, promising another grand showcase of sporting excellence and international camaraderie.
