Born: 1994 (Nongpok Kakching, Manipur)
Biography:
Saikhom Mirabai Chanu, an Indian weightlifter, has made a significant impact in the world of sports with her incredible talent and determination. Born on August 8, 1994, in Nongpok Kakching, Manipur, she hails from a Meitei family, which is a warrior clan in the region. From a young age, Chanu displayed remarkable strength and resilience. At the age of 12, she was able to effortlessly carry a large bundle of firewood home, a task that her elder brother struggled with. This extraordinary strength caught the attention of her family and set the stage for her future in weightlifting.
Chanu’s journey in weightlifting began at the Sports Academy in Manipur, where she received training and honed her skills. To reach her training sessions, she would often hitch rides with truck drivers carrying sand. This level of dedication and determination demonstrated her unwavering commitment to her sport.
Chanu’s breakthrough came at the 2014 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, where she won the silver medal in the women’s 48 kg weight class. This marked the start of her successful career on the international stage. She went on to achieve greater heights at the 2017 World Weightlifting Championships held in Anaheim, California, where she clinched the gold medal in the women’s 48 kg category.
In the following years, Chanu continued to excel and make a name for herself in the weightlifting world. She won multiple medals at the Commonwealth Games, including a gold medal in the 2018 edition held in Gold Coast. Breaking the games record, she proved her dominance in the sport.
One of Chanu’s most significant achievements came in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, where she won the silver medal in the women’s 49 kg category. This outstanding performance showcased her talent and solidified her position as one of India’s finest weightlifters. Her success at the Olympics was a testament to her hard work, determination, and resilience throughout her career.
Chanu’s contributions to the sport of weightlifting have not gone unnoticed. She has received numerous awards and recognitions for her achievements. In 2018, she was honored with the Padma Shri, one of India’s highest civilian awards, by the Government of India. The same year, she was also awarded the prestigious Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna, a sporting honor that acknowledges outstanding performance and contribution to sports.
As of today, Saikhom Mirabai Chanu holds the world record in the Clean & Jerk in the 49 kg category. Her incredible strength and dedication have inspired countless individuals, especially women, to pursue their dreams and overcome challenges.
Awards:
– Padma Shri
– Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna