PM Modi laughs as boxer Narender Berwal reveals Pakistan rival's name jibe

Boxer's tale tickles Prime Minister

Prime Minister Narendra Modi was left in splits when Indian boxer Narender Berwal recounted a peculiar conversation he had with a Pakistani opponent during the World Military Games. The anecdote, which has since gone viral, centred on the pugilist's admission that he had developed a strong dislike for the name Narender.

Speaking at an event where Modi interacted with athletes, Berwal narrated how the Pakistani boxer, after their bout, confessed: "Mujhe Narendra naam se nafrat ho gayi hai" (I have come to hate the name Narender). The reason, as Berwal explained, was the Indian's dominance in the ring, which had made the name a sore point for his rival.

A rivalry that crossed borders

The story, first reported by The Times of India, quickly became a talking point on social media. Berwal, a heavyweight boxer, has represented India at multiple international events, including the World Military Games, where he faced the Pakistani athlete. The exchange, though competitive on the mat, ended with a moment of unexpected humour that even the Prime Minister could not resist.

Modi's reaction — a hearty laugh — was captured on camera and shared widely. The light-hearted moment offered a rare glimpse of the camaraderie that can exist even between athletes from rival nations, especially in a sport like boxing where tensions often run high.

Berwal and Ankush eye Asian Games glory

Meanwhile, both Berwal and fellow pugilist Ankush have set their sights on a bigger prize: gold at the Asian Games 2026. In a recent interaction with ANI, the two boxers expressed their determination to top the podium, with Berwal keen to build on his international experience.

For Berwal, the Asian Games represent a chance to cement his legacy beyond the viral moment with Modi. His journey from the World Military Games to the continental stage has been marked by steady improvement, and he remains a strong contender in the heavyweight category.

Ankush, too, has shown promise, and the duo's focus on the Asian Games underscores India's growing depth in boxing. The sport has seen a resurgence in recent years, with multiple Indian boxers qualifying for global championships and Olympic cycles.

A moment that humanises sport

The exchange between Berwal and the Pakistani boxer, though humorous, also highlights the psychological battles that define elite sport. A name can become a symbol of defeat, a reminder of a rival's superiority. For the Pakistani athlete, "Narender" evidently became just that.

Modi's laughter, however, suggested a different reading — one where sport transcends borders and rivalries fade into shared stories. It is a rare moment of levity in the often serious discourse around India-Pakistan relations, and it has resonated with fans across both countries.

As the story continues to circulate, Berwal has taken it in stride, using it as motivation for the challenges ahead. His focus remains on the ring, where he hopes to make the name Narender synonymous with success, not just for himself but for Indian boxing.

With the Asian Games 2026 on the horizon, all eyes will be on Berwal and Ankush to deliver. If their recent form is any indication, Indian boxing fans may have more reasons to cheer — and perhaps more stories to share.