In the world of weightlifting, few names resonate as powerfully as that of Mirabai Chanu. Hailing from the northeastern state of Manipur, India, Mirabai’s journey from a small village to the Olympic podium is a testament to her unwavering determination, resilience, and exceptional talent.
Early Life and Introduction to Weightlifting
Born in the village of Nongpok Kakching near Imphal, Manipur, Mirabai was the youngest of six siblings. Her early life was marked by physical labor, as she often helped her family by carrying firewood and fetching water from distant places. It was during these tasks that her innate strength became evident. Her mother recognized this potential and suggested she take up weightlifting—a suggestion that would change Mirabai’s life forever.
However, the nearest weightlifting facility was over 20 kilometers away in Imphal. Undeterred, Mirabai would commute daily, often relying on the kindness of truck drivers who offered her free rides to her training sessions. This support played a crucial role in her early development as an athlete.
Rise to Prominence
Mirabai’s dedication and hard work soon bore fruit. At the age of 11, she clinched her first gold medal in a local weightlifting competition. This victory marked the beginning of a series of achievements that would establish her as one of India’s premier weightlifters.
World Championship Glory
In 2017, Mirabai achieved a significant milestone by winning the gold medal at the World Weightlifting Championships held in Anaheim, USA. This victory made her the first Indian woman in 22 years to become a world champion in weightlifting.
Commonwealth Games Success
Mirabai’s prowess continued to shine on the Commonwealth stage. At the 2018 Gold Coast Commonwealth Games, she set new records by lifting a total of 196 kg, securing the gold medal in the 48 kg category. She successfully defended her title at the 2022 Birmingham Commonwealth Games, lifting a total of 201 kg and once again clinching the gold.
Tokyo 2020: A Historic Silver
The pinnacle of Mirabai’s career came at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics. Competing in the women’s 49 kg weightlifting category, she lifted a total of 202 kg (87 kg in snatch and 115 kg in clean and jerk), earning the silver medal. This achievement was monumental, as she became only the second Indian weightlifter to win an Olympic medal, following Karnam Malleswari’s bronze in 2000.
Challenges and Resilience
Despite her successes, Mirabai’s journey has been fraught with challenges. She has battled multiple injuries, including issues with her wrist, shoulder, lower back, and hip. These setbacks have often disrupted her training and competition schedules. For instance, at the 2024 Paris Olympics, Mirabai finished fourth in the women’s 49 kg category, lifting a total of 199 kg. She narrowly missed out on a medal, as the bronze was decided by a mere 1 kg difference.
However, Mirabai’s resilience has been unwavering. She continues to train under the guidance of coach Vijay Sharma, aiming to lift over 200 kg in future competitions. Her determination and positive mindset serve as an inspiration to many aspiring athletes.
Legacy and Impact
Mirabai Chanu’s achievements have not only brought her personal glory but have also elevated the profile of Indian weightlifting on the global stage. Her success has inspired a new generation of athletes, especially women, to pursue sports professionally. She has become a symbol of perseverance, breaking barriers and setting new standards in Indian sports.
Conclusion
From carrying firewood in her village to lifting weights on the Olympic stage, Mirabai Chanu’s journey is a remarkable story of grit, determination, and excellence. Her legacy continues to inspire and motivate countless individuals, proving that with passion and perseverance, no dream is too heavy to lift.
For a closer look at Mirabai Chanu’s historic silver medal at the Tokyo Olympics, watch the following video:
