Mirabai Chanu Aims for Asian Games Glory After Past Setbacks

Mirabai Chanu, a prominent figure in Indian weightlifting, is determined to secure her first Asian Games medal after a series of setbacks, including injuries and weight category changes. With a remarkable track record that includes an Olympic silver and multiple world championship medals, she is now focused on overcoming challenges as she prepares for the upcoming Asian Games in Nagoya, Japan. Chanu's commitment to grassroots sports initiatives further highlights her dedication to nurturing future talent in the sport. Discover how she plans to achieve her long-awaited goal.

By Narendra Chaudhary Mar 26, 2026, 16:57 IST

Pursuing the Elusive Asian Games Medal

For over ten years, Mirabai Chanu has represented Indian weightlifting with distinction. Her accolades include a silver medal at the Tokyo Olympics, three medals from World Championships, and three podium finishes at the Commonwealth Games. However, one significant achievement remains out of reach: an Asian Games medal.

Mirabai made her debut at the Asian Games when she was just 19, finishing ninth in the 2014 event held in Incheon. Unfortunately, she had to withdraw from the 2018 Asian Games in Jakarta due to a back injury that hampered her training, as stated in a press release.

Her closest attempt at winning a medal occurred during the 2022 Asian Games in Hangzhou, where a hip injury thwarted her chances after she came agonizingly close to a podium finish. This injury also kept her out of competition for nearly five months.

Now 31, she has made a remarkable recovery and qualified for the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris, where she narrowly missed securing a second consecutive Olympic medal. Since then, her focus has been on breaking her Asian Games medal drought.

"The Asian Games hold personal significance for me as I have unfinished business there. The competition is intense, making it both challenging and exciting," Mirabai expressed.

Adapting to Weight Category Changes

A significant challenge for Mirabai has been adapting to changes in her weight category. Traditionally competing in the 49kg division, she now needs to adjust her weight class due to new regulations from the International Weightlifting Federation.

She will compete in the 48kg category at the 2026 Commonwealth Games, scheduled from July 23 to August 2 in Glasgow, before reverting to the 49kg category for another shot at an Asian Games medal in Nagoya, Japan, from September 19 to October 4.

"I will maintain my weight at 48kg until the Commonwealth Games, but I will need to switch back to 49kg shortly after for the Asian Games," Mirabai noted.

Record-Breaking Performance at Nationals

Mirabai kicked off her 2026 season at the National Weightlifting Championships in February, where she set three new national records in the women's 48kg category.

During the Nationals, she lifted 89kg in the snatch, her best performance despite competing in a lower weight class. She then achieved a successful lift of 116kg in clean and jerk, establishing a national record in the women's 48kg category, bringing her total to 205kg and earning the gold medal. This total also matched her personal best of 205kg in the 49kg category, previously achieved at the Asian Weightlifting Championships five years ago.

Support for Grassroots Sports Initiatives

Mirabai, who regards her gold medal from the 2017 World Weightlifting Championships as even more significant than her Olympic silver, commended the launch of the Khelo India Tribal Games, viewing it as a vital platform for athletes from remote areas.

"This is a proud moment for me as an athlete to witness the government prioritizing various sports initiatives like the Khelo India Tribal Games. The KIBG will provide a platform for athletes from remote regions to showcase their talents. I've seen many instances across the country, particularly from the North-East and tribal areas, where potential exists but has not been realized due to a lack of opportunities like the KITG," she stated.

She also emphasized the importance of the National Centres of Excellence and Khelo India State Centres of Excellence, along with SAI training centers across India, in supporting elite athletes and nurturing future talent.

"The NCOEs and Khelo India State Centres of Excellence have been crucial in offering world-class training facilities, enabling elite athletes to stay in top form. Many young athletes are training in these centers, preparing for global competitions, and with consistent coaching, nutrition, and training environments, these centers are enhancing the sporting ecosystem," she added.