Commonwealth Games 2026 closing ceremony: Shankar Mahadevan, Rishab Rikhiram Sharma, Manushi Chhillar shine as Ahmedabad takes centre stage

The Commonwealth Games 2026 came to a spectacular end with a grand closing ceremony at Glasgow's OVO Hydro, bringing 11 exciting days of sporting action, friendship and celebration to a memorable close. The event was filled with music, culture and emotions as athletes, performers and fans gathered one last time to celebrate the spirit of the Games.

The ceremony was based on the theme "Connection", highlighting the bond shared by the 74 Commonwealth nations and territories. It celebrated not just sporting excellence but also the unity, diversity and friendship that the Games represent.

Music, Culture and Scottish Pride

The evening opened with a lively performance by Australian singer Delta Goodrem, setting the stage for a night full of energy and entertainment. Scottish rock band Simple Minds, along with folk-electronic group Elephant Sessions and local artists, added a unique Scottish flavour to the celebrations with their vibrant performances.

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One of the most emotional moments came when Prince Edward, Duke of Edinburgh, officially declared the Commonwealth Games 2026 closed, marking the end of another successful edition of the event.

India Steals the Spotlight

As Glasgow said goodbye, India proudly stepped into the spotlight during the special 20-minute handover presentation, introducing Ahmedabad, the host city of the historic 2030 Commonwealth Games, which will also mark the centenary edition of the event.

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Grammy-winning singer Shankar Mahadevan, joined by his sons Siddharth and Shivam Mahadevan, delivered a powerful musical performance. Their soulful rendition of "Vande Mataram", inspired by the message of "Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam" the world is one family received loud applause from the audience. The trio also performed inspiring songs such as "Ae Watan," "Bhaag Milkha Bhaag," "Lahra Do," and "Sabse Aage Honge Hindustani," celebrating India's sporting spirit.

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Former Miss World Manushi Chhillar added elegance to the presentation, while Gujarati singer Bhoomi Trivedi brought the colours and energy of Gujarat to the global stage.

Historic Fusion That Won Hearts

One of the biggest highlights of the evening was the breathtaking musical collaboration between Indian sitar maestro Rishab Rikhiram Sharma and celebrated Scottish bagpiper Ross Ainslie. Their beautiful fusion of the sitar and bagpipes, including a powerful performance of the "Shiv Tandava Stotram," created a magical blend of Indian classical music and Scottish folk traditions. The performance symbolised the passing of the Games from Scotland to India and received a standing ovation.

A special film showcasing India's rich sporting history and the city of Ahmedabad also gave the world a glimpse of what to expect in 2030.

Proud Moment for India

India's successful campaign ended on a proud note as boxer Jaismine Lamboria, who won the gold medal in the women's 57kg category, led the Indian contingent during the Parade of Nations as the country's flag bearer. The Commonwealth Games flag was officially handed over to India, while sports personalities including Neeraj Chopra, PT Usha, and Harsh Sanghvi witnessed the historic moment.

The closing ceremony was more than just the end of the Games. It was the beginning of a new journey for Ahmedabad, which is now ready to welcome the Commonwealth family in 2030 with open arms and showcase India's culture, hospitality and sporting passion to the world.

- PTC PUNJABI