Pawan Sehrawat Replaces Tajinderpal Singh Toor as India's Flag-Bearer for 2026 Asian Games
Public Lokpal
September 19, 2026
Pawan Sehrawat Replaces Tajinderpal Singh Toor as India's Flag-Bearer for 2026 Asian Games
In a notable last-minute change for the 2026 Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya, star kabaddi player Pawan Sehrawat has been named India's male flag-bearer for the opening ceremony.
He replaces two-time Asian Games gold-medallist shot putter Tajinderpal Singh Toor, who had to step down due to logistical and technical reasons.
Sehrawat will share the prestigious honor alongside double Olympic medalist shooter Manu Bhaker, who remains India's female flag-bearer.
This selection is a tremendous milestone for kabaddi, recognizing Sehrawat’s phenomenal leadership, including guiding India to gold at the Hangzhou Asian Games and receiving the Arjuna Award.
Despite missing out on the ceremonial honor, Tajinderpal Singh Toor remains with the Indian contingent, fully focused on defending his continental shot put title.
The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) confirmed that the transition was handled smoothly to ensure the contingent's morale and readiness remain at their peak.