Boxer’s Anecdote and Minister’s Reaction
Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya recently commented on an anecdote shared by Indian boxer Narender Berwal. The boxer recounted an incident involving a Pakistani opponent, who expressed a strong dislike for the name “Narendra.” Mandaviya posted on X, stating in Hindi, “Narendra naam ka khauf hai Pakistan mein,” which translates to, “The name ‘Narendra’ is feared in Pakistan.” This reaction came after Berwal narrated the story during an interaction with Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
The interaction took place at the Prime Minister’s residence in New Delhi on Sunday, where Berwal was among the Indian medal winners from the 2026 Commonwealth Games. A video of this exchange was widely circulated, including on the Prime Minister’s YouTube channel and other social media platforms. The story prompted laughter from PM Modi.
Berwal, who hails from Haryana, explained that the name “Narendra” and “Narender” are regional variations of the same name, differing based on phonetics. PM Modi is from Gujarat, where the spelling “Narendra” is common.
Commonwealth Games Achievements and Humorous Encounter
Narender Berwal secured a silver medal in the men’s 90kg boxing category at the 2026 Commonwealth Games held in Glasgow. During his conversation with PM Modi, Berwal recalled an incident from the 2015 World Military Games. After defeating a Pakistani opponent, the two boxers both required hospital treatment for cuts sustained when their heads collided during the bout.
It was at the hospital that the Pakistani boxer, whose name was not disclosed, made a notable remark to Berwal. Berwal quoted the opponent as saying, “Bhai jaan… Mujhe Narendra naam se nafrat ho gayi hai,” which translates to, “Brother dear, I have come to hate the name ‘Narendra’!” The Pakistani boxer reportedly pointed out that Berwal’s name was Narender, his coach was also named Narender, and India’s Prime Minister was Narendra, leading to his aversion to the name.
India’s boxing contingent at the 2026 Commonwealth Games had a strong performance, with Narender Berwal being one of 10 Indian boxers who returned with medals. The team achieved its best-ever haul in the sport at a Commonwealth Games, securing seven gold and three silver medals. This performance surpassed the previous record of six gold medals, which was jointly held by England (in 1934 and 2018) and Canada (in 1986).
India’s Overall Medal Tally and Future Hosting
Overall, India concluded its campaign at the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow with a total of 39 medals. This impressive tally included 13 gold, 17 silver, and nine bronze medals, placing India fourth in the overall medal standings. The Games in Glasgow concluded after 11 days of competition.
Looking ahead, India is slated to host the 2030 Commonwealth Games in Ahmedabad, Gujarat. This city is the home state of both Prime Minister Modi and Minister Mandaviya. The ceremonial baton for the Commonwealth Games was formally handed over to India by Scotland at the conclusion of the Glasgow Games.
The Prime Minister congratulated all the Indian athletes who earned medals at the 2026 Commonwealth Games, acknowledging their dedication, hard work, and contributions to bringing glory to the nation.
Source: hindustantimes.com
