PM Modi Celebrates Mirabai Chanu's Historic Gold at Commonwealth Games

New Delhi, India Jul 26, 2026 ALN: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday congratulated Indian weightlifting star Mirabai Chanu after she clinched her third consecutive Commonwealth Games gold medal, describing her latest triumph as another glorious chapter in Indian weightlifting. This achievement not only highlights Chanu's individual talent but also signifies the growing prominence of Indian athletes in international sports, particularly in weightlifting. Her success serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration for aspiring athletes across the nation, showcasing the potential of Indian sports on a global platform.

Chanu delivered a dominant performance in the women’s 48kg event at the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, securing India’s first gold medal of the Games. Her victory came shortly after compatriot Rishikanta Singh Chanambam won silver in the men’s 60kg category, marking a successful start for the Indian contingent at the Games. The Commonwealth Games, held every four years, serve as a significant platform for athletes from the Commonwealth nations to showcase their skills and compete at a high level. The Games not only foster sportsmanship but also encourage camaraderie among nations, making it an important event in the international sports calendar.

In a post on X, the Prime Minister praised Chanu’s consistency and remarkable achievements on the Commonwealth Games stage. He stated, “Another glorious chapter in Indian Weightlifting! The talented Mirabai Chanu once again showcased her skills at the Commonwealth Games with a stunning performance in the 48 kg category and winning Gold. With back-to-back Commonwealth Games Golds and an overall fourth CWG medal to her name, she remains an inspiration for every Indian. Congratulations to her! Best wishes for the endeavours ahead.” This acknowledgment from the Prime Minister underscores the importance of sports in fostering national pride and unity. It reflects a broader recognition of the role that sports can play in bringing people together, transcending regional and cultural differences within the country.

Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya also congratulated the Olympic medallist on her latest success. In a post on X, the Sports Minister expressed his admiration, saying, “A hat-trick of GOLD medals! Congratulations to Mirabai Chanu on clinching the Gold medal at the Glasgow Commonwealth Games. Your unwavering dedication, remarkable consistency, and extraordinary strength continue to make India proud on the global stage.” The support from government officials reflects a growing recognition of the role of sports in enhancing India's image internationally. This recognition is crucial as it can lead to increased funding and resources for athletes, thereby improving the overall sports ecosystem in the country.

Chanu produced another commanding display on the platform, having earlier set a Commonwealth record with an 85kg lift in the snatch. She began the clean and jerk section with an unsuccessful attempt at 82kg but bounced back to successfully lift the weight on her second attempt before clearing 85kg on her third attempt to set a new Commonwealth Games and Commonwealth record. This resilience and ability to perform under pressure is a testament to her training regimen and mental fortitude, qualities that are essential for success in competitive sports. Such performances not only contribute to her personal accolades but also elevate the standards of Indian weightlifting on the international stage.

She then successfully lifted 105kg in her final attempt to seal the gold medal and complete a historic hat-trick of Commonwealth Games titles. The triumph added to Chanu’s gold medals from the 2018 Gold Coast and 2022 Birmingham Commonwealth Games, while also giving India its first gold medal of the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games. With the victory, the decorated weightlifter further cemented her status as one of India’s most accomplished athletes on the international stage, inspiring a new generation of athletes to pursue their dreams. Her achievements are particularly significant in the context of Indian sports, where weightlifting has historically not received the same level of attention or investment as other sports.

Chanu’s journey is particularly significant considering the challenges faced by athletes in India, including limited resources, access to training facilities, and the need for greater support from the sports administration. Her success story serves as a beacon of hope and motivation for aspiring weightlifters and athletes across various disciplines. The Indian sports ecosystem has been evolving, with increased investment in training facilities and coaching, which is beginning to bear fruit as evidenced by the performances of athletes like Chanu. This evolution is crucial, as it not only enhances the competitive landscape but also encourages more young people to take up sports.

Moreover, Chanu's achievements also highlight the importance of women in sports, encouraging more female athletes to pursue competitive sports. As a role model, she embodies the spirit of determination and perseverance, qualities that resonate with many young girls in India and beyond. The visibility of female athletes in high-profile events such as the Commonwealth Games plays a crucial role in breaking stereotypes and promoting gender equality in sports. Her success challenges the traditional perceptions about women in athletics and serves as a powerful example of what can be achieved with dedication and hard work.

Looking ahead, Chanu's continued success will likely have implications for her career trajectory, including potential sponsorship opportunities, increased media attention, and the possibility of competing in future international events like the Olympics. The Tokyo 2020 Olympics, where she won a silver medal, marked a turning point in her career, and her performance in Glasgow will further solidify her reputation as a world-class athlete. The spotlight on her achievements can also lead to greater investment in women's sports in India, which has been an area of concern for many advocates of gender equality in athletics.

In conclusion, Mirabai Chanu's historic gold medal at the Commonwealth Games is not just a personal victory but a significant milestone for Indian sports as a whole. Her accomplishments reflect the potential of Indian athletes on the global stage and the importance of continued support for sports development in the country. As the nation celebrates her achievements, it is crucial to recognize the collective efforts of coaches, sports officials, and the government that contribute to nurturing talent and fostering a culture of excellence in sports. The journey ahead for Chanu and her fellow athletes is filled with promise, and their continued success will undoubtedly inspire future generations to strive for greatness in their respective fields.