Takhellambam Inunganbi: A Resilient Journey in Indian Judo

A Remarkable Comeback in Judo

Takhellambam Inunganbi's ascent back to the pinnacle of Indian judo is a testament to her resilience, patience, and steadfast belief in her journey. After battling through two significant knee injuries, including a meniscus tear that necessitated surgery in 2024, the 27-year-old athlete has emerged stronger. She clinched victory at the 2025-26 Senior National Championships and made history by becoming the first Indian judoka in over a decade to earn a medal at the Asian Judo Championships. Now, she is set to compete in the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, eager to maintain her momentum on an international platform.

Supportive Environment Fuels Comeback

Training at the Inspire Institute of Sport (IIS), Inunganbi has thrived in a high-performance setting that has been crucial to her recovery. Following her surgery in June 2024, IIS provided comprehensive support for her rehabilitation and return to competitive sports, including coaching, strength training, physiotherapy, recovery, sports science, and nutritional guidance. In her own words, "Returning from two serious knee injuries has taught me to value every training session and competition. There were times when the path seemed unclear, but my belief in a stronger comeback never wavered. The support from IIS during my rehabilitation was invaluable, allowing me to focus on becoming my best self."

Historic Achievement and Renewed Determination

Earlier this year, Inunganbi reached a significant milestone by winning a bronze medal at the Asian Judo Championships in Ordos, marking the first time an Indian has medaled at this event since 2013. This achievement reinforced her belief that perseverance and consistency yield results. "Winning the bronze at the Asian Championships was a pivotal moment, reminding me that all my hard work during rehabilitation paid off. Each competition offers valuable lessons, and my aim is to keep improving, trust the process, and perform at my best whenever I step onto the mat," she stated.

Coach's Endorsement: Resilience as a Key Trait

Baye Diawara, Inunganbi's coach at the Inspire Institute of Sport, emphasizes her remarkable resilience as her greatest asset. "Recovering from one major injury is challenging, but returning from two serious knee injuries and succeeding at the highest level requires extraordinary dedication. She embraced the rehabilitation process, worked diligently every day, and remained focused on her goals. Her medal at the Asian Championships is a testament to months of disciplined effort, and I believe she is prepared to compete against the best in Glasgow," he remarked.

Anticipation for Glasgow

Now reestablished among India's top judokas, Inunganbi is committed to continuous improvement rather than merely focusing on results. "I've learned that success stems from patience and daily incremental improvements. Representing India is a privilege, and I am thrilled about the chance to compete at the Commonwealth Games. My objective is to give my all on the mat, enjoy the experience, and continue evolving as an athlete," she expressed. Following an inspiring comeback story in Indian judo, Inunganbi heads to Glasgow, ready to leverage her confidence from a breakthrough season on one of the sport's grandest stages.