Gyaneshwari Yadav Shines with Silver at Commonwealth Games 2026

In a remarkable debut at the Commonwealth Games 2026, Indian weightlifter Gyaneshwari Yadav clinched a silver medal in the women's 53kg category. Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised her achievement, noting her personal best in the competition. Gyaneshwari's performance not only contributed to India's medal tally but also showcased her determination and skill, setting multiple records along the way. Despite finishing second to Nigeria's Onome Omolola Didih, her journey marks a significant milestone in her athletic career, inspiring the youth of India.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 27, 2026, 23:30 IST

Gyaneshwari Yadav's Remarkable Performance

Glasgow [Scotland], July 27: Indian weightlifter Gyaneshwari Yadav received heartfelt congratulations from Prime Minister Narendra Modi after securing a silver medal in the women's 53kg category during her debut at the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow on Monday. She finished just behind Nigeria's Onome Omolola Didih in a fiercely contested final.

In a message shared on X, PM Modi highlighted the significance of Gyaneshwari's achievement, noting that she reached a personal best in this competition. He stated, “Congratulations to Gyaneshwari Yadav for winning the Silver Medal in Weightlifting at the Commonwealth Games Glasgow 2026. This success is even more remarkable as she has achieved a personal best. May her accomplishment inspire the youth of India. Wishing her continued success in her future endeavors.”

With Gyaneshwari's silver medal, India's medal tally at the Games rose to five, which includes one gold, three silvers, and one bronze, showcasing the country's strong performance.

The 23-year-old from Chhattisgarh exhibited exceptional composure and determination throughout the competition, pushing her limits and setting multiple Games records in a tough battle for the top position, as reported by ESPN.

Gyaneshwari kicked off her campaign with an impressive 82kg lift in the snatch, followed by a successful 85kg on her second attempt. She then achieved a remarkable 88kg lift, breaking the Commonwealth Games record in her category and putting pressure on Didih.

In response, the Nigerian lifter executed a record-breaking 93kg snatch, taking the lead into the clean and jerk segment. The competition for gold intensified as both athletes displayed extraordinary strength and technique.

Gyaneshwari began the clean and jerk round with a powerful 103kg lift, bringing her total to 191kg and setting another Games record. She followed this with a 107kg lift, further improving her mark and narrowing the gap to Didih.

With the gold medal within reach, Gyaneshwari attempted a final lift of 111kg, which she successfully completed, finishing with a total of 199kg. This lift earned her another Games and Commonwealth record, but Didih countered with an impressive 113kg effort, securing the gold medal for Nigeria with a total of 206kg.

Although she did not clinch the top spot, Gyaneshwari's silver medal represents a significant achievement in her career. Previously competing in the 49kg category, she moved up to 53kg, acknowledging the challenge of facing India's Olympic medallist Mirabai Chanu in the lower weight class.