Mirabai Chanu Celebrates Commonwealth Games Gold with PM Modi
Chanu's Joyful Meeting with PM Modi
Mirabai Chanu, who clinched a gold medal at the Commonwealth Games 2026 and is also an Olympic medalist, expressed her joy after meeting Prime Minister Narendra Modi at his residence. During their meeting, she recounted her journey to victory in Glasgow, which culminated in an emotional moment as she held the gold medal while the national flag was raised.
On Sunday, PM Modi hosted the medal winners from the Commonwealth Games 2026 at his home.
Chanu's Remarkable Achievements
At the Glasgow Games, Chanu further established her status as one of India's premier weightlifters by securing her third CWG gold in the 48 kg category. This follows her previous gold medals in the same weight class in 2018 and in the 49 kg category in 2022.
Chanu shared a video of her meeting with PM Modi on her social media, stating, "Some conversations stay with you, not just for the words exchanged, but for what they represent. Honoured to share a heartfelt exchange with Hon'ble PM Shri Narendra Modi Ji, and humbled by his appreciation of my journey, my love for the nation, and my role as an athlete."
Emotional Reflections on Victory
During their conversation, PM Modi inquired about the tears Chanu shed upon winning the gold. She explained that her journey was fraught with injuries, family challenges, and the lingering disappointment of narrowly missing a medal at the Paris Olympics 2024 by just one kilogram.
"I was overwhelmed with happiness and emotion that day. The joy was immense. I cried because I had missed out on a medal in the Tokyo Olympics by just 1 kg. As athletes, we endure so much. Over the past four years, I faced numerous challenges, including injuries and family issues. Standing on the podium, with our flag raised and the national anthem playing, I couldn't hold back my tears," Chanu shared.
Chanu's Legendary Career
Chanu's accolades include an Olympic silver medal in the 49 kg category, three World Championship medals (including a gold in 2017), and an Asian Championship bronze. Her impressive collection of medals positions her as a true legend in weightlifting, with an Asian Games medal being the final piece needed to complete her prestigious cabinet.
India's Performance at the 2026 Games
The 2026 Commonwealth Games adopted a compact format, which resulted in the exclusion of several major events where India traditionally excels, such as shooting, wrestling, and badminton. India concluded the Glasgow Games in fourth place on the medals table, securing a total of 39 medals: 13 gold, 17 silver, and 9 bronze.
Looking Forward: Ahmedabad to Host 2030 Games
India has officially embarked on its journey to host the Commonwealth Games in 2030 in Ahmedabad. The ceremonial handover of the Commonwealth Games Flag took place during a vibrant Closing Ceremony that celebrated the conclusion of Glasgow 2026 and looked forward to the centenary edition of the Games.
This moment not only marks the return of the Commonwealth Games to India after the 2010 edition in New Delhi but also signifies the first time Gujarat will host the event. It heralds a new chapter for Indian sports as the nation prepares to welcome athletes from across the Commonwealth for this landmark event. The Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports aims to restore traditional sports while developing world-class infrastructure to achieve a record medal haul.