The journey of the Indian team in the Asian Games 2026 has been full of ups and downs. After the historical record of winning more than 100 medals in the last Asian Games, this time in Japan the Indian team has not been able to perform its best as per expectations. The country has lost some important medals in major sports like shooting and badminton. However, despite this, India has left a great mark in some non-traditional and less popular sports. While fans expect medals from traditional sports like shooting and archery, India has pleasantly surprised everyone by winning medals in other unique sports as well. It is very interesting that on the 9th day of the competition, Pinky Balihar won the bronze medal for India in the Kurash game. Apart from this, India also won its first historic bronze medal in MMA. Given the country's stellar performance in non-traditional sports, let us take a look at the unique sports in which India can shine in the Asian Games 2026. Which medal did India win in Wushu? In Wushu game, India's Naorem Roshibina Devi won the silver medal in the women's 60 kg Sanda category. Many sports lovers might be wondering what is Wushu? Wushu is primarily a form of Chinese martial arts. It is divided into two parts: Sanda and Taolu. Taolu consists of a set sequence of choreographed punches and kicks, while Sanda involves more physical contact (full-contact) and less choreography. What is MMA and how did India get a medal in it? India created history by winning its first bronze medal in MMA (Mix Martial Arts) at the Asian Games, where Suchika Tariyal achieved this feat. The full name of MMA is Mixed Martial Arts, which is mainly used in UFC. It is a full-contact fighting sport that allows fighters to use a variety of striking and grappling techniques. What are the rules of Kurash game? Another less known game is Kurash. India's Pinky Balihar won bronze medal in Kurash at the Asian Games 2026. Kurash is an ancient form of standing wrestling. In this, two contestants face each other wearing green and blue colored jackets and belts. Its main objective is to grab the opponent's jacket or belt and throw him on the ground. What has been India's record in Sepak Takraw? Sepak Takra is also called 'Kick Volleyball'. This is a form of volleyball game, but the special thing in it is that players have to play the ball only with their feet. Along with this, players also display a mixture of aerial stunts and martial arts. India had won a medal in this sport in the 2018 Asian Games, but could not succeed in winning a medal in 2026. How India's Jai Meena created history in soft tennis? India's Jai Meena created history by winning the first medal of the Asian Games in soft tennis. He won the bronze medal. As per the name, soft tennis is very similar to normal tennis. The main difference is that soft tennis is played with a hollow and soft rubber ball.
