Asian Para Games 2026: Pramod Bhagat, Bhavina Patel named India’s flagbearers for opening ceremony

The honour brings together two of India’s most accomplished para-athletes, whose careers have been defined by excellence, resilience and a relentless pursuit of sporting success. | Photo Credit: Special Arrangement

Paralympic medallists Pramod Bhagat and Bhavina Patel will lead the Indian contingent as flagbearers at the opening ceremony of the Aichi-Nagoya 2026 Asian Para Games, on October 18.

The honour brings together two of India’s most accomplished para-athletes, whose careers have been defined by excellence, resilience and a relentless pursuit of sporting success.

Pramod Bhagat, one of India’s most decorated para badminton players, has won six Asian Para Games medals between 2014 and 2023, including two gold.

Bhavina Patel, one of India’s leading para table tennis players, has won two Asian Para Games medals between 2018 and 2023 (one silver and bronze each).

The Paralympic Committee of India (PCI) will formally see off the Indian contingent at a special send-off Ceremony on October 8 at ITC Maurya, New Delhi.

The ceremony will be graced by Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya, and Raksha Nikhil Khadse, Minister of State for Youth Affairs & Sports.

The selection of Bhagat and Patel carries special significance. Both athletes have been at the forefront of India’s rise in para sport, inspiring a generation while consistently delivering on the biggest international stages. Their presence at the head of the contingent will symbolise

India’s journey from participation to performance, and from representation to recognition on the global para-sport stage.