Breakthrough moment for Indian judo: Gujarat’s Rohit Majgul has qualified for both the 2026 Commonwealth and Asian Games in the 66kg division. The trials in New Delhi witnessed his grit, culminating in a dramatic golden score win over Haryana’s Garvit via a decisive O-goshi waza-ari in the best-of-three final.
Majgul, training with Vijayi Bharat Foundation from his native Talala village in Gir Somnath, has maintained an impeccable record, unbeaten in recent senior nationals. His achievement underscores a shift in Indian judo’s landscape, with Gujarat stepping up.
The Glasgow Commonwealth Games kick off July 23, running till August 2, followed by Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games from September 19. Majgul’s post-trial comments radiated pride: ‘This qualification is a dream realized. Trials honed my stamina; credit goes to my coaches and the foundation’s ecosystem.’
This tribal youth’s success story motivates aspiring athletes. It validates the foundation’s methods and elevates state pride. In context, India’s Asian Games judo medals began with four bronzes in 1951—Sandeep Bayala, Kawas Billimoria, Shyam Singh Gurjar, and Bannu Singh. Poonam Chopra’s 1994 bronze is the lone women’s feat.
As India eyes more podium finishes, Majgul’s qualification fuels optimism. His technical finesse and mental fortitude position him as a contender, with focused training ahead to conquer international mats.