Bindyarani Devi Sorokhaibam Clinches Bronze at Commonwealth Games 2026
A Surprising Triumph for Bindyarani Devi
In a remarkable turn of events, Bindyarani Devi Sorokhaibam secured a bronze medal at the 2026 Commonwealth Games, much to the delight of her family. Her mother, Sorokhaibam Ongbi Ibemcha, expressed their astonishment, noting that they had not anticipated a podium finish after Bindyarani transitioned to the 58kg weight category.
Speaking to a news outlet, Ibemcha shared the family's joy over her daughter's achievement, especially considering the challenges she faced during the competition.
"Winning the bronze medal brings me immense happiness. We honestly did not expect her to medal this time. Previously, when she won silver, we were quite naive about sports. We only knew she was competing. This time, however, we were more informed. She was initially set to compete in the 53kg category but ended up in the 58kg category," she explained.
Ibemcha mentioned that the shift to a higher weight class had lowered their expectations for a medal, but Bindyarani's dedication led her to achieve a bronze.
"We had little hope for a medal since moving up by 1kg was already a challenge, and a further 5kg increase made us even less optimistic. Yet, her hard work paid off, and I view this bronze as a significant achievement," she stated.
Expressing her pride in her daughter's performance, Ibemcha emphasized that the medal reflects Bindyarani's determination and resilience.
"I feel a deep sense of satisfaction knowing she placed third among numerous competitors. Even though she finished third, I am thrilled that she made it to the podium. I am incredibly grateful for this victory. Her success showcases her determination and perseverance," she remarked.
The proud mother also believed that Bindyarani could have contended for gold had she remained in her original weight category.
"Despite her efforts and training, luck was not on her side. As a mother, I believe that if she had competed in the 53kg category, she might have won gold. I recognize her willpower, courage, and determination," Ibemcha added.
She concluded by stating that the family felt more fulfilled with this bronze medal than with Bindyarani's previous silver, as they entered the competition without any expectations.
"Initially, we thought her luck was against her due to the weight increase. However, her hard work bore fruit. We felt immense satisfaction and happiness yesterday, even more than when she secured second place previously. We saw this as a sign of divine intervention," she said.
Bindyarani's impressive performance earned her a second Commonwealth Games medal, finishing behind Nigeria's Rafiatu Folashade Lawal, who claimed gold with a Games record total of 229kg, and Canada's Ann Sophie Taschereau, who took silver with 215kg.
The Indian lifter began her snatch attempts with a composed strategy, as her coaching team adjusted her opening lift from 85kg to 83kg.
She successfully lifted 83kg, followed by 85kg and 87kg, tying with England's Eliza Pratt but winning on countback. In the clean and jerk, her first attempt of 110kg was ruled a no-lift after a jury review due to an elbow buckle. However, she rebounded strongly, lifting 112kg on her second attempt, bringing her total to 199kg and briefly placing her in silver medal contention.
She then aimed for a personal best with a 116kg attempt but was unable to complete the lift. Nevertheless, her total of 199kg secured her the bronze medal.
This podium finish in Glasgow marks Bindyarani's second Commonwealth Games medal, following her silver at the Birmingham 2022 Games.
This achievement is particularly noteworthy as it comes after her recovery from a knee injury in 2023 and her adaptation to competing in both the 55kg and 58kg weight categories. Bindyarani's bronze medal contributes to India's tally at the Glasgow Commonwealth Games, which now stands at six medals, including one in para powerlifting. So far, India has won one gold, three silver, and two bronze medals.