From competing for food to a gold medal: the stories behind India’s Asian Games winners

The Guardian reports: Plus, the Mumbai performer turning everyday absurdities into comedy In a country where cricket eclipses every other sport, the recently concluded Asian Games offered a much-needed reminder of India’s breadth of sporting talent.

The country’s 85-medal haul included athletes who trained with limited money and borrowed equipment. In this edition of the games, in Japan, India won 85 medals: 21 golds, 27 silver and 37 bronze medals.

This world story centres on India. Names and organisations mentioned in the coverage include India’s Asian Games, Mumbai and Asian Games.

Why it matters

International developments of this kind are often followed closely by governments, aid organisations and global markets.

Key details

Location

India · Asia

Reported by

The Guardian

First reported

6 Oct 2026, 12:00 IST

Key names

India’s Asian Games, Mumbai, Asian Games, Japan

Section

World

Sources

This is an independent summary. Read the full, original reporting from the publisher:

• The GuardianFrom competing for food to a gold medal: the stories behind India’s Asian Games winners 6 Oct, 12:00

Read the full story at The Guardian ↗

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