Keyaa Kunal Banerji: India's Rising Powerlifting Star Shines at World Championship
Keyaa Kunal Banerji's Remarkable Achievement
A captivating video featuring a young Indian woman lifting an astonishing weight has gone viral, with many hailing her as the future star of powerlifting in India. Introducing Keyaa Kunal Banerji, a 21-year-old athlete who has captured the attention of the Indian sports community.
During the 2026 IPF World Sub-Junior and Junior Classic Powerlifting Championship held in Sun City, South Africa, Banerji amazed spectators by deadlifting 140 kg. This impressive accomplishment not only earned her a silver medal but also represented more than three times her body weight of 45.70 kg. Social media is abuzz with congratulatory messages and clips showcasing her lift, with many admiring both her talent and beauty.
Who is Keyaa Kunal Banerji?
Keyaa is a 21-year-old powerlifter competing in the junior women's 47 kg category. Her achievements are particularly noteworthy given her weight of just 45.70 kg. Her remarkable deadlift has garnered significant attention, culminating in a total lift of 280 kg at the championship, which included a 90 kg squat, a 50 kg bench press, and her impressive 140 kg deadlift.
Although she finished fifth overall in the 47 kg junior category, her standout performance came in the individual deadlift event. Her lift of 140 kg secured her the second position, just behind France's Ines Herbaulx, who lifted 165 kg. Ireland's Blathnaid O'Dwyer also achieved a 140 kg lift, but Banerji claimed the silver medal based on rankings.
Keyaa's Progress and Impact on Powerlifting
This achievement highlights Banerji's significant improvement over the past year. At the 2025 National Championship, her total lift was 257.5 kg (82.5 kg squat, 47.5 kg bench press, and 127.5 kg deadlift). Her performance at the 2026 National Championship was even more impressive, totaling 287.5 kg (95 kg squat, 52.5 kg bench press, and 140 kg deadlift). Thus, her 140 kg deadlift in South Africa is a testament to her consistent progress.
In India, sports like cricket, football, and badminton dominate the headlines, often overshadowing powerlifting. However, Banerji's viral lift has brought much-needed attention to the sport. An athlete weighing just 45.70 kg successfully deadlifting 140 kg on a global stage has certainly made waves.
While Banerji's silver medal has provided a rare moment of recognition for Indian powerlifting, it's important to note that India had a strong overall performance in South Africa. Madhura Kar secured four gold medals, and Zabuawala achieved a sixth-place finish, showcasing that Indian powerlifters are indeed a formidable presence.