With 30 days to go for the BWF World Championships, New Delhi 2026, Union Sports Minister Dr Mansukh Mandaviya and Badminton Association of India president Dr Himanta Biswa Sarma unveiled the tournament’s official mascot, Peacko, and championship anthem on Saturday.Inspired by the Indian Peafowl, Peacko blends elements of India, Delhi and badminton. The mascot features a skirt inspired by an open shuttlecock.The anthem brings together India’s entire 16-member contingent off court for the first time, including PV Sindhu, Lakshya Sen, Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty. The track draws inspiration from Delhi and India’s contemporary street rap culture.Speaking at the launch, Mandaviya said, “The BWF World Championships, New Delhi 2026, marks another proud milestone in this journey. It reflects the growing stature of Indian badminton and our unwavering commitment to creating world-class sporting infrastructure and providing greater opportunities for our athletes.”Sarma called the tournament’s return to India after 17 years “a landmark moment for our sport”, adding, “Peacko and the official anthem are the first steps in that journey, and I am confident the Championships will leave a lasting legacy for badminton in our country.”More than 400 shuttlers from over 50 countries will compete in New Delhi from August 17 to 23. India’s challenge will be led by five-time World Championships medallist Sindhu, alongside former medallists Sen, Rankireddy and Shetty, and rising players including Ayush Shetty and Unnati Hooda.
