Indian Weightlifter Rishikanta Singh Secures Silver at Commonwealth Games 2026
Celebrating Rishikanta's Achievement
On Sunday, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, along with Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya, Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju, and Gujarat's Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi, extended their congratulations to Indian weightlifter Chanambam Rishikanta Singh for clinching the silver medal in the men's 60kg category at the 2026 Commonwealth Games held in Glasgow.
This silver medal represents India's first medal at the current Games, following para powerlifter Jhandu Kumar's earlier bronze.
Nation Celebrates Rishikanta's Silver Medal
In a message on X, Amit Shah praised Rishikanta for his achievement, stating that he has made the country proud and wishing him ongoing success. He remarked, "Kudos to Rishikanta Singh Chanambam on winning the Silver Medal at the 2026 Commonwealth Games. You have made the nation proud with your victory. May success always be your companion."
Mansukh Mandaviya also expressed his pride in Rishikanta's accomplishment, saying, "Heartiest congratulations to Rishikanta Singh Chanambam on winning the Silver Medal in Weightlifting Men's 60kg. The entire nation is proud of you."
Gujarat's Deputy Chief Minister, Harsh Sanghavi, commended Rishikanta's performance, stating, "When hard work meets determination, the Tricolour flies higher. Another medal, another moment of pride for the nation. Congratulations to Rishikant Singh on clinching the Silver Medal in the Men's 60kg Weightlifting event at the Commonwealth Games 2026. Your remarkable achievement has made India proud. Wishing you continued success. Jai Hind."
Union Minister Kiren Rijiju also congratulated Rishikanta, highlighting his determination and resilience, and wishing him further podium finishes. He stated, "Another shining moment for Indian sports! Heartiest congratulations to Rishikanta Singh Chanambam on winning the Silver Medal in the Men's 60 kg Weightlifting event at the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games. Your remarkable performance reflects unwavering determination, strength & resilience. The nation is immensely proud of you. Wishing you many more podium finishes ahead."
A Close Contest for Gold
Rishikanta achieved a total lift of 264kg (121kg in snatch and 143kg in clean and jerk), while Malaysia's Mohamad Aniq Kasdan secured the gold medal with a record total of 273kg (121kg snatch and 152kg clean and jerk). Kenya's Joshua Mboya earned the bronze with a total of 260kg (115kg + 145kg), as reported by ESPN.
Snatch: A Record-Breaking Start
Rishikanta began strongly in the snatch, successfully lifting 116kg, then 119kg, and finally breaking the Commonwealth Games snatch record with a lift of 121kg, achieving a new personal best. Kasdan matched this effort, resulting in both lifters tied at the top after the snatch round.
Clean and Jerk: The Final Showdown
In the clean and jerk, Rishikanta opened with a successful lift of 143kg, temporarily taking the overall lead with a total of 264kg. Kasdan responded by lifting 145kg and then 149kg, moving ahead with a total of 270kg, putting pressure back on Rishikanta.
To reclaim the lead, Rishikanta needed to lift 151kg on his final attempt. Although he completed the clean, he was unable to lock out the jerk, ending his pursuit of gold.
Kasdan concluded his impressive performance by lifting 152kg in his final clean and jerk attempt, setting a Games record total of 273kg.