India’s Commonwealth Games Finale to Shine with Rashmika Mandanna and Shankar Mahadevan’s Performances

Rashmika and Shankar Mahadevan at CWG 2026

IIE DIGITAL: India’s rich cultural heritage will take centre stage at the closing ceremony of the Commonwealth Games 2026, with actress Rashmika Mandanna and celebrated singer-composer Shankar Mahadevan set to headline the country’s special presentation in Glasgow.

The grand ceremony, scheduled to take place at The Hydro on August 2, will witness India receiving the Commonwealth Games flag as part of the official handover ahead of the 2030 edition, which will be hosted in Ahmedabad.

The Indian segment, expected to run for around 20 minutes, will showcase the country’s vibrant traditions through a spectacular mix of music, dance and cultural performances. The presentation will also mark the beginning of India’s journey towards hosting the centenary edition of the Commonwealth Games in 2030.

Shankar Mahadevan, one of India’s most respected musical talents, will bring his decades of experience as a singer, composer and music director to the global stage. Known for his iconic album Breathless and his work with the acclaimed Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy trio, he has created some of the most memorable melodies in Indian cinema.

Rashmika Mandanna, one of the biggest stars of contemporary Indian cinema, will add glamour and energy to the event. The actress, who has worked across Telugu, Kannada and Hindi films, is known for popular movies including Geetha Govindam, Pushpa: The Rise and Animal.

The closing ceremony will also feature performances from international artists, including Scottish rock legends Simple Minds, Australian singer Delta Goodrem and several renowned Scottish performers.

Ahmedabad’s selection as the host city for the 2030 Commonwealth Games will be highlighted during the ceremony. The event will mark India’s second opportunity to host the multi-sport spectacle after New Delhi successfully staged the Games in 2010.

India’s 2010 Commonwealth Games campaign remains its most successful outing, with the country winning 101 medals, including 38 gold medals, and finishing second in the overall standings.

As the Commonwealth Games 2026 concludes, the Indian contingent will look to leave its mark on the sporting stage, while the closing ceremony promises to offer the world a glimpse of India’s cultural diversity and artistic excellence.