The Commonwealth Games 2026 officially got underway in Glasgow on Thursday, with King Charles III declaring the 23rd edition of the Games open during a vibrant opening ceremony at the OVO Hydro.
Olympic medallists Mirabai Chanu and Lovlina Borgohain led India’s 126-member contingent during the Parade of Nations. While Tokyo Olympics silver medallist Mirabai carried the Indian flag, Olympic bronze-winning boxer Lovlina Borgohain carried the ceremonial Commonwealth baton, symbolising India’s ambitions for another successful Games.
Returning to Glasgow for the first time since the memorable 2014 edition, the opening ceremony celebrated Scotland’s culture through music, dance and storytelling. Scottish artistes KT Tunstall, Nathan Evans and Saint PHNX headlined the performances before King Charles III officially declared the Games open.
India has sent a 126-member contingent to compete across 13 disciplines, including para sports, despite the Games featuring a reduced programme compared to previous editions.
Interestingly, India’s campaign had already begun before the opening ceremony, with the lawn bowls team becoming the country’s first athletes in action earlier on Thursday. The team will be hoping to emulate its historic success from Birmingham 2022.
The 2026 Commonwealth Games feature athletes from 74 Commonwealth nations and territories competing across 10 sports at venues including the Scottish Event Campus, Scotstoun Stadium, Tollcross International Swimming Centre and Glasgow Arena.
India will once again rely on several Olympic medallists to spearhead its medal challenge. Olympic champion Neeraj Chopra headlines the athletics squad, while Mirabai Chanu is among the favourites in weightlifting and Lovlina Borgohain will lead India’s boxing campaign. A strong boxing contingent is also expected to boost India’s chances of another impressive medal haul.
With the opening ceremony complete and the Games officially underway, attention now shifts to 11 days of competition as athletes battle for medals in Glasgow.