The emotional high point of the closing ceremony at Glasgow's OVO Hydro on Sunday came when Scotland formally transferred the Commonwealth Games baton to India. The handover was followed by a vibrant cultural presentation featuring music, dance and storytelling that celebrated India's unique blend of ancient traditions and contemporary identity.
Prince Edward, Duke of Edinburgh, representing King Charles III, officially declared the Games closed and invited athletes from across the Commonwealth to gather in India for the centenary edition of the Games.
"Thanks for the manner in which you have competed, officiated, supported, organised the Games. You have once again brought the spirit and value of Commonwealth tonight. Thank You Glasgow," he said.
"I call upon athletes of all countries and territories to come to Ahmedabad, India in four years time to celebrate the 24th Commonwealth Games in what will be the centenary of the Games," he added.
Indian boxer Jaismine Lamboria, who won gold in the women's 57kg category, proudly carried the Indian flag during the closing ceremony.
The symbolic handover began with the Commonwealth Games flag making its journey across the arena. Glasgow's Lord Provost Jacqueline McLaren passed the flag through a distinguished line of representatives, including Commonwealth Sport President Dr Donald Rukare, Olympic champion Neeraj Chopra, Indian Olympic Association President PT Usha, before Gujarat Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi received it on behalf of India.
The ceremony marked the official transfer of hosting duties from Scotland to India.
India's presentation unfolded in three acts, reflecting the country's cultural diversity, artistic traditions and shared values.
At its heart was the philosophy of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, "The World is One Family", highlighting India's message of unity, inclusivity and global friendship.
The performance also celebrated 150 years of Vande Mataram, with actor Manushi Chhillar leading a grand choreography accompanied by immersive visuals and an orchestral score composed by Shankar Mahadevan.
Hundreds of performers showcased India's rich traditions, languages and artistic heritage while introducing global audiences to Ahmedabad, the host city for the 2030 Commonwealth Games.
A specially curated film portrayed sport as an integral part of India's civilisational journey—from ancient disciplines to the ambitions of one of the world's youngest nations. Gujarat was presented as a state where history meets innovation, positioning Ahmedabad as the ideal destination for the centenary edition of the Games.
One of the evening's standout moments was "The Cultural Jugalbandi," where renowned Indian sitar maestro Rishab Sharma shared the stage with celebrated Scottish musician Ross Ainslie.
The fusion of Indian sitar with Scottish pipes created a powerful musical dialogue between two rich cultural traditions, symbolising friendship beyond borders.
The closing performance featured Shankar Mahadevan alongside his sons Siddharth and Shivam Mahadevan, performing iconic songs including Suno Gaur Se Duniya Walon, Bhaag Milkha Bhaag, Ae Watan and Lehara Do.
Gujarati singer Bhoomi Trivedi added a tribute to the host state, ensuring Gujarat took centre stage before welcoming athletes from across the Commonwealth in 2030.
The Indian showcase followed Glasgow's farewell celebration of Scottish music, poetry and dance, bringing the curtain down on the 2026 Commonwealth Games while opening an exciting new chapter for India as the next host nation.
