Balhara claims bronze at Asian Games 2026 kurash championships

Balhara's medal-winning run came to an end on Monday when she faced Mo in the women's 78kg kurash semifinals, suffering a decisive 0-5 defeat. The Indian grappler received a Dakki penalty during the encounter, while her opponent secured a Yonbosh point to seal the victory. The bronze medal marks Balhara's second Asian Games podium finish, adding to her impressive record at the continental championships.

The 27-year-old Indian wrestler had advanced to the semifinals with a commanding performance against South Korea's Garam Lim, winning 3-0 in her earlier bout. Balhara produced the match-deciding score through a Chala—a throw executed without full control—while Lim failed to register any points throughout the contest.

Balhara's first Asian Games medal came eight years prior at the Jakarta Games in 2018, when she secured silver in the women's 52kg category. That achievement marked a significant milestone as kurash made its debut at the Asian Games during that edition. Her latest bronze adds to India's medal tally at the 2026 Asian Games kurash competition.