Mirabai Chanu Celebrated for Achievements and Push for Arjuna Award
Mirabai Chanu's Joyful Visit to Ahmedabad
Indian weightlifter Mirabai Chanu expressed her joy during her recent visit to the Ahmedabad center, where she was warmly welcomed by a large crowd of fellow Indians. She shared her delight, stating, "I am truly delighted. I hadn't expected to meet so many fellow Indians here. It feels like the entire city of Ahmedabad has come here."
Preparation for Commonwealth Games
Chanu also conveyed her enthusiasm about India hosting the upcoming Commonwealth Games, emphasizing her commitment to perform at her best. She remarked, "India is set to host the next Commonwealth Games. We've been watching the preparations unfold over the past year. I am overjoyed that India will be hosting these games, and I am fully preparing myself to deliver my best performance across all sports disciplines."
Push for Arjuna Award
In a related development, Prataprao Ganpatrao Jadhav, the Union Minister of State for Ayush and Health, has taken the initiative to recommend Mirabai Chanu for the prestigious Arjuna Award this year. In his letter to the Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports, Mansukh Mandaviya, he highlighted Chanu's remarkable achievements and contributions to Indian weightlifting.
Jadhav noted that Chanu, hailing from Manipur, has made history with her outstanding performances at the Commonwealth Games, bringing immense pride to the nation. He pointed out her impressive record of winning gold medals at consecutive Commonwealth Games and being the first Indian athlete to secure gold on each occasion.
The Minister also praised her exceptional lifts in the 48 kg category, including record-breaking performances in the snatch, clean and jerk, and total lift categories.
Recognition of Chanu's Journey
Despite already receiving several prestigious awards, including the Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award and the Padma, along with an Olympic medal, Chanu's childhood dream of winning the Arjuna Award remains unfulfilled. Jadhav urged the Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports to consider her nomination, stating that awarding her the Arjuna Award would be a fitting tribute to her exceptional talent and contributions to Indian sports.
He emphasized that Chanu's inspiring journey from a small village in Manipur to becoming one of India's top weightlifters exemplifies her determination and dedication, serving as a motivation for countless young Indians.