Mirabai Chanu Ends 28-Year Medal Drought for India in Weightlifting at Asian Games
Mirabai Chanu wins Indias first weightlifting medal at the Asian Games in 28 years, securing silver in the 49kg category.
Nagoya, September 23 (Daily Kiran) : Mirabai Chanu has made history at the 2026 Asian Games in Nagoya by winning India’s first weightlifting medal in 28 years. The star athlete secured a silver medal, marking a significant achievement for the nation in the sport.
Competing in the 49-kilogram category, Chanu lifted a total of 198 kilograms. Her performance comes after narrowly missing out on a medal at the recent Asia Cup, where she finished fourth. In the snatch round, she began with an 83-kilogram lift, followed by successful attempts of 85 and 87 kilograms. Her clean and jerk round also showcased her strength, starting with a lift of 107 kilograms and successfully raising 111 kilograms in her second attempt.
North Korea’s Ri Song-gum claimed the gold medal in this event. The last time India secured a medal in weightlifting at the Asian Games was in 1998, when Karnam Malleshwari brought home a bronze. Chanu’s dream of winning gold this time did not materialize, but her silver medal ends a long dry spell for Indian weightlifting.
Previously, Chanu finished ninth in the 2014 Asian Games and missed the Jakarta Games due to injury. At the 2026 Commonwealth Games, she had a stellar performance, winning gold. Her achievements extend beyond these events, as she has also earned medals at the Olympics and World Championships.
