Glasgow Commonwealth Games 2026 begin: King Charles III opens event as India eyes medal haul
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday extended his best wishes to the Indian contingent as the Commonwealth Games 2026 officially got underway in Glasgow, expressing confidence that the country's athletes would once again make India proud on the international stage.
Taking to X, the Prime Minister wrote, 'As the Commonwealth #Glasgow2026 Games begin, my best wishes to the Indian contingent.'
He said he was confident that the athletes would compete with 'passion, determination and a spirit of excellence' throughout the Games.
'I am confident that our athletes will participate in the Games with passion, determination and a spirit of excellence,' Modi posted.
The Prime Minister also praised the commitment and perseverance of Indian sportspersons, saying their achievements continue to inspire millions across the country.
'The skills and dedication of our athletes always inspire countless Indians,' he added.
India has fielded a 126-member contingent for the Glasgow Commonwealth Games, with athletes competing across 13 disciplines, including para sports. Olympic medallists Mirabai Chanu and Lovlina Borgohain led the Indian contingent during the opening ceremony, while several top stars, including Neeraj Chopra, will spearhead India's medal campaign over the next 11 days.
About opening ceremony:
The Commonwealth Games 2026 officially opened with a vibrant ceremony at Glasgow's OVO Hydro, where King Charles III declared the Games open.
The event marked the return of the Commonwealth Games to Glasgow after the 2014 edition and celebrated Scotland's rich cultural heritage through music, dance and storytelling.
Performances by KT Tunstall, Nathan Evans and Saint PHNX lit up the ceremony, while Olympic medallists Mirabai Chanu and Lovlina Borgohain led the Indian contingent during the Parade of Nations.
The traditional lighting of the cauldron capped off the celebrations, signalling the start of 11 days of sporting action featuring athletes from 74 Commonwealth nations and territories.