Mirabai Chanu’s Golden Lift: Strength, Perseverance and Hope for India

 By Simran Kalra 

A Golden Moment in Ahmedabad

The roar inside the hall in Ahmedabad was deafening, yet Mirabai’s focus remained steady. In the women’s 48 kg category, she lifted a combined total of 193 kilograms which included 84 kg in snatch and 109 kg in clean and jerk. The moment the barbell locked overhead, the crowd erupted in joy, waving the tricolour with pride. For Mirabai, this medal was more than a symbol of victory. It was the reward for years of discipline and sacrifice. Winning on home soil made the moment even more special and she credited her coaches, support team and the love of the nation for helping her deliver her best performance.

The Journey Back to Glory

Mirabai’s path to this golden moment was far from easy. After finishing fourth at the Paris 2024 Olympics, she went through a phase of self-doubt and struggled with injuries. Many athletes in her situation would have chosen to retire or slow down but Mirabai did the opposite. She rebuilt her strength, worked quietly on her weaknesses and made a bold move to switch to the 48 kg weight class after changes in international regulations. Her story is not just about physical training. It is about mental toughness and the determination to rise again after falling. It shows young athletes everywhere that failure is not the end. It can be the foundation for a bigger comeback.

Breaking Records and Setting New Goals

Her performance in Ahmedabad was nothing short of historic. She shattered Commonwealth Championship records in snatch, clean and jerk and total lift. The 193 kg total surpassed the previous best by a significant margin and earned her a direct qualification for the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow. Beyond the numbers, her victory reflects her relentless commitment to the sport and to representing India on the world stage. After the event, she humbly said her success was the result of relentless hard work and the encouragement of the nation. Her words remind us that no champion stands alone. It takes a community of supporters to build greatness.

Inspiring More Than Just Athletes

Mirabai’s story reaches far beyond the world of sports. She grew up in a small village in Manipur, carrying firewood as a child, which built her physical strength long before she touched a barbell. Her journey from a humble background to the world stage inspires countless young girls and boys who dream of achieving something big despite limited resources. Through her success, she sends a powerful message that hard work, courage and self-belief can overcome any barrier. NGOs working for youth empowerment and gender equality can point to Mirabai’s life as proof that investment in sports and education can transform lives and entire communities.

Looking Ahead with Renewed Spirit

This victory is just the beginning of a new chapter for Mirabai. With her eyes now set on the upcoming World Championships and the 2026 Commonwealth Games, she continues to inspire millions with her humility and determination. Her golden lift in Ahmedabad is not only an athletic achievement. It is a reminder that perseverance and passion can move mountains. As India celebrates her success, her story will keep motivating future generations to chase their dreams fearlessly.