PM Modi Praises Boxer Lovlina Borgohain: In a light-hearted yet meaningful interaction with India’s 2026 Commonwealth Games medal winners, Prime Minister Narendra Modi commended Olympic and CWG medallist Lovlina Borgohain for demonstrating deep national pride away from the sporting arena.
The Prime Minister praised the Assam-born boxer for calling out a distorted map of India displayed at a prominent restaurant in Glasgow, Scotland, during the multi-sporting event.
According to media reports, the interaction took place at the Prime Minister’s official residence in New Delhi, attended by Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya, Minister of State for Sports Raksha Khadse, and Indian Olympic Association President PT Usha.
“Were You Fighting With the Restaurant People?”: PM Modi’s Lighter Moment
PM Modi Praises Boxer Lovlina Borgohain: During the meeting, PM Modi shared a smile with the 75kg silver medallist and brought up a video that had previously gone viral on social media.
He playfully asked her, “Kya hua wo restaurant waale se jhagda kar rahi thi?” (What happened, were you fighting with the restaurant people?).
Laughing at the recall, Lovlina explained that the incident occurred on the final day of the competition during a victory dinner with the Indian boxing squad.
According to media reports, she recalled the moment, stating:
“Our performance was so good, and it was the last day. Everyone had won, and there were so many Indians there. I felt a bit bad seeing the distorted map, so I spoke to them firmly and made a polite request, sir. They agreed, and things have changed now.”
Applauding her alertness, PM Modi noted that her love for the country was not confined to the podium while receiving a medal. He remarked:
“In that moment of victory happiness, joy, being with teammates after the games are over in such a mood of fun and laughter, to look at that map and register it… the feeling for the country isn’t just on the surface while receiving a medal; it’s deep within.
I’m telling the truth, this video of yours is extraordinary. People will remember it for a very long time.”
What Was the Controversy Over the Indian Map in Glasgow?
The controversy unfolded during a post-event celebration at Mister Singh’s India, a popular dining venue in Glasgow frequented by visiting Indian delegations.
While examining the menu card, napkins, and outdoor signage, Lovlina noticed that the printed depiction of India’s map had omitted the Northeastern region and inaccurately represented Jammu and Kashmir.
In the viral video, the boxer was seen politely but firmly addressing the restaurant management. She noted:
“Please don’t take this the wrong way. I felt a little hurt by this. In the map of India, our North East is missing… As someone from the North East, that really hurts us. That’s all I wanted to say. Please keep this in mind next time.”
Following widespread attention on social media, the restaurant owners issued a public apology, explaining that the print was based on an outdated historical map template.
According to media reports, the management assured the Indian contingent that immediate corrective measures were being taken to update the branding and logos across all materials.
Historic Boxing Campaign at CWG 2026
The incident occurred alongside an unprecedented performance by the Indian boxing contingent at the 2026 Commonwealth Games. India topped the boxing medal tally with 10 medals, including seven gold and three silver.
Overall, India concluded its Glasgow campaign with 39 medals (13 gold, 17 silver, and 9 bronze), securing the fourth spot in the overall standings.
At the close of the event, Scotland formally handed over the Commonwealth Games flag and ceremonial baton to India, which is set to host the landmark 2030 centenary edition of the Games in Ahmedabad.
Also Read: CWG 2026: India Secures Impressive 4th Rank in Glasgow Despite Slashed 10-Sport Schedule