Manikanta L Emerges as Star Performer
Karnataka’s complete Supremacy in Swimming
Chhattisgarh Secures One Silver and Two Bronze
Raipur, March 27, 2026//
On the third day of the Khelo India Tribal Games, Karnataka delivered an outstanding performance at the international swimming pool, further strengthening its lead in the medal tally. Karnataka has become the first state to win more than 10 gold medals. By the end of Day 3, the state had secured 13 gold, 5 silver, and 1 bronze medal, with all gold medals coming from swimming events.
Manikanta L Shines with Eight Gold Medals
Karnataka’s star swimmer Manikanta L continued his exceptional run, winning two gold and one silver medal on the third day. With eight gold medals so far, he has emerged as the most successful athlete in the competition, playing a key role in Karnataka’s commanding lead.
Intense Competition in Medal Tally
In the medal standings, Odisha is second with 6 gold, 2 silver, and 9 bronze medals, while Assam is third with 2 gold, 4 silver, and 2 bronze medals. Host state Chhattisgarh, with a total of 6 medals, including 3 silver and 3 bronze, is jointly placed seventh along with Tripura.
Best Performance So Far by Host Chhattisgarh
Athletes from host Chhattisgarh showcased commendable performance on Day 3, winning one silver and two bronze medals. Anushka Bhagat secured her third silver medal of the competition in the women’s 50m backstroke event. Nikhil Jalko clinched bronze in the men’s 50m breaststroke, while Nyasa Paikra added another bronze in the 100m butterfly event, bringing pride to the state.
Maharashtra and Arunachal Pradesh Open Gold Account
Maharashtra and Arunachal Pradesh also made strong performances on Day 3, opening their gold medal tally. Maharashtra’s Tanvi Dhurve won gold in the women’s 100m butterfly event. From Arunachal Pradesh, Anai Wangsu claimed gold in the 58 kg weightlifting category, while Richin Chongruju secured gold in the 79 kg category.
Thrilling Contests in Swimming Events
Swimming competitions witnessed intense battles among athletes. In the women’s 50m backstroke, Karnataka’s Meghanjali won gold, while Chhattisgarh’s Anushka Bhagat secured silver. In the men’s category, Manikanta L dominated by winning gold in both the 50m backstroke and 100m butterfly events. Karnataka’s Dhuneesh N also added a gold in the 50m freestyle.
Strong Performances in Weightlifting
Weightlifting events also saw remarkable performances. Arunachal Pradesh’s Anai Wangsu lifted 169 kg to win gold in the 58 kg category. Odisha’s Bidu Smita Bhoi secured gold in the 63 kg category with a lift of 195 kg. In the men’s events, Mizoram’s MH Silvan Beharothatlo won gold in the 71 kg category, while Arunachal Pradesh’s Richin Chongruju topped the 79 kg category.
Participation from Across the Country
The first edition of the Khelo India Tribal Games is witnessing participation from around 3,800 athletes representing 30 states and union territories. A total of 106 gold medals are at stake across disciplines, including archery, athletics, football, hockey, swimming, weightlifting, and wrestling. Mallakhamb and kabaddi are included as demonstration sports.
More Exciting Competitions Ahead
After three days of competition, 14 states have won at least one medal, and 6 have secured gold. The upcoming days are expected to witness even more thrilling and competitive events as athletes continue to strive for excellence.