The 31-year-old cleared 2.26m to grab bronze in Monaco, becoming the first Indian ever to podium on debut. What’s more? He leapfrogged Olympic gold medalists Gianmarco Tamberi and Mutaz Barshim; yes, those legends; in the process. This isn’t just a breakthrough. It’s a statement. After setting a new national record (2.31m) last month and becoming the first Indian high jumper to reach a World Championships final, Kushare is now eyeing Commonwealth Games glory. With a consistent, clean sheet of jumps; 2.12m to 2.26m, all on first try; he’s proven he belongs among the world’s elite. For Indian athletics, this is more than a podium finish. It’s momentum. And the best may still be ahead.