Mirabai Chanu Wins Silver at Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games 2026

Indian weightlifter Mirabai Chanu has made headlines by winning a silver medal in the women's 49kg category at the Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games 2026. Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised her determination and consistency, highlighting her inspiring journey from humble beginnings to becoming a national icon. This achievement marks another milestone in her decorated career, adding to her accolades as an Olympic silver medalist and Commonwealth Games champion. With India's medal tally at 11, the nation stands proud as Chanu continues to inspire future generations of athletes.

By Narendra Chaudhary Sep 23, 2026, 13:45 IST

Prime Minister Modi Celebrates Chanu's Achievement

On Wednesday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended his congratulations to Indian weightlifter Mirabai Chanu for securing a silver medal in the women's 49kg category at the Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games 2026. He highlighted her unwavering determination and consistency as a source of inspiration for the nation.

Official Announcement from the Prime Minister's Office

The Prime Minister's Office shared a message on X, stating, "A special Silver for @mirabai_chanu! Congratulations to her on winning the medal in the Women’s 49 kg Weightlifting event. Her determination and consistency continue to inspire the nation. India is proud of her. Best wishes for her future endeavours: PM @narendramodi."

Chanu's First Asian Games Medal

Chanu achieved her first Asian Games medal with a total lift of 198kg, marking the end of a long wait for a podium finish at this continental competition. The Olympic medalist successfully completed all three of her snatch attempts, lifting 83kg, 85kg, and 87kg. In the clean and jerk category, she began with 107kg and later lifted 111kg in her second attempt, culminating in a total of 198kg.

Competition Results

North Korea's Ri Song Gum clinched the gold medal with a total lift of 215kg, while Wijayana took home the bronze.

A Significant Milestone in Chanu's Career

This silver medal adds another significant achievement to Chanu's illustrious career. As a silver medalist at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics and a three-time Commonwealth Games champion, she is now the second Indian weightlifter, following Karnam Malleshwari, to earn medals across the Olympics, Asian Games, Commonwealth Games, World Championships, Asian Championships, and Commonwealth Championships.

Overcoming Challenges

Chanu narrowly missed an Asian Games podium finish at Hangzhou in 2023 due to an injury that forced her to withdraw from her final clean and jerk attempt, resulting in a fourth-place finish. The 32-year-old entered the Aichi-Nagoya Games after winning gold at the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, further enhancing her medal collection.

Chanu's Inspiring Journey

Born in Nongpok Kakching, Manipur, Chanu began her formal weightlifting training in 2008. Rising from modest beginnings, she has become one of India's most celebrated athletes, inspiring a new generation of weightlifters.

India's Overall Medal Count

As of now, India has secured a total of 11 medals, placing the country 11th in the overall standings, while China leads with 65 medals.