India has found a new star in pole vault, and his name is Kuldeep Kumar. In a memorable performance, Kuldeep created history by setting a new national record of 5.41m, going past the previous mark of 5.40m held by Dev Meena.
The big moment came at the Indian Indoor Open Combined Events and Pole Vault competition in Bhubaneswar. Kuldeep first cleared 5.35m, showing strong form. Then came the record-breaking jump 5.41m, a height that now stands as the best ever by an Indian.
He also tried 5.46m, which is just above the Asian Games 2026 qualification mark of 5.45m, but missed it narrowly. Still, this performance showed that he is very close to even bigger heights.
Kuldeep’s progress this season has been steady and impressive.
5.25m at Indian Open Jumps
5.25m at Indian Open Athletics Series
5.41m at Indian Indoor Open Combined Events and Pole Vault competition
This was also his third contest this year with Dev Meena. In Bengaluru, both cleared 5.25m but Meena won on countback. In Jaipur, Kuldeep returned the favour and won on countback. Now, in this third meeting, Kuldeep clearly came out on top with a national record.
Behind him, Reegan Ganesh finished second with 5.25m, while Dev Meena took third place with 5.20m.
After his historic jump, Kuldeep spoke with confidence and calmness “I’m feeling good. It was just luck that Dev couldn’t do it today. It feels great to break the national record. We are confident of doing even better in the coming championships.” He told NNIS Sports..
He also explained how things changed during the competition. “At 5.35m, I changed the pole and started doing better. I cleared 5.41m and just missed 5.46m.”
What makes this story even better is the bond between the two top vaulters. Kuldeep said, “Dev and I train together under the same coach. Training together really helps. Sometimes, Meena even clears 5.50m in training. Together, we will take Indian pole vault to greater heights.”
With this performance, Kuldeep Kumar has not only broken a record but also given Indian athletics a new hope. The way he is improving, crossing 5.45m and beyond now looks just a matter of time.