Odisha’s 6-Member Martial Arts Contingent Wins 18 Medals at International Championship in Hyderabad

HYDERABAD: Odisha’s six-member martial arts contingent delivered a strong performance at the 2nd International Martial Arts Championship 2026, held in Hyderabad on August 1 and 2.

All six athletes from Odisha secured podium finishes in their respective categories, winning a total of 18 medals — 7 Gold, 6 Silver and 5 Bronze.

Under the guidance of Coach Umakanta Behera, the team competed across different categories during the two-day championship and recorded multiple medal finishes.

Medal Tally & Individual Achievements

Sudeshna – 2 Gold & 1 Bronze

Aadityanaamaan Mohanty – 1 Gold & 2 Silver

Bhabesh Kumar Mohanty – 1 Gold, 1 Silver & 1 Bronze

Sri Kumar Abhishek – 1 Gold, 1 Silver & 1 Bronze

Asis Kumar Barik – 1 Gold, 1 Silver & 1 Bronze

Ashirbad Behera – 1 Gold, 1 Silver & 1 Bronze

Total: 18 medals — Gold: 7, Silver: 6, Bronze: 5

Highlights of the Championship

• Double Gold: Sudeshna won 2 Gold medals and 1 Bronze medal in her respective events.
• Multiple Medal Finish: Aadityanaamaan Mohanty secured 1 Gold and 2 Silver medals.
• Triple Podium Finishes: Bhabesh Kumar Mohanty, Sri Kumar Abhishek, Asis Kumar Barik and Ashirbad Behera each won 1 Gold, 1 Silver and 1 Bronze medal.

Coach’s Reaction

Speaking after the victory ceremony, Coach Umakanta Behera appreciated the athletes’ dedication and preparation for the championship.

“Our athletes trained relentlessly for this stage. Performing on an international platform with this level of composure and physical excellence reflects their commitment. Winning 18 medals across 6 participants is a testament to the talent in Odisha’s martial arts community.”

The medal-winning performance in Hyderabad has brought recognition to the Odisha contingent and provided further encouragement to the state’s emerging martial arts athletes.