Archive · 25 Jul 2026
Indian Weightlifters Overcome Adversity to Achieve Historic Success
Kunjarani Devi and Saikhom Mirabai Chanu are two remarkable weightlifters from the Indian state of Manipur.
Kunjarani Devi started lifting weights in the 1980s when it was not common or accepted for women to do so.
Despite facing societal pressures and financial struggles, she became the first Indian to win a medal at the World Championship.
Her success paved the way for Mirabai Chanu, who also faced financial difficulties but was supported by the Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS).
Chanu went on to win India's first Olympic medal in weightlifting at the Tokyo 2020 Games.
Their stories highlight the challenges and triumphs of female athletes in India and the importance of institutional support in achieving success.
Kunjarani Devi overcame societal expectations and financial struggles to become the first Indian to win a medal at the World Championship.
Saikhom Mirabai Chanu was supported by the Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS) and won India's first Olympic medal in weightlifting at Tokyo 2020.
Both athletes come from Manipur, a state known for producing successful weightlifters despite limited resources.
The success of these athletes has led to increased sponsorship and recognition for female strength athletes in India.
Their achievements have inspired a new generation of weightlifters from Manipur, creating a pipeline of talent.
- Who
- Kunjarani Devi and Saikhom Mirabai Chanu, Indian weightlifters from Manipur.
- What
- Overcoming societal and financial barriers to achieve success in weightlifting.
- When
- From the 1980s to the present day.
- Where
- Primarily in Manipur, India, with international competitions worldwide.
- Why
- To challenge societal norms, achieve personal and national success, and inspire future generations.
Traditional Gender Roles
Athletic Ambition
Marriage Prospects
Traditional Gender Roles
Weightlifting was seen as ruining a woman's body and marriage prospects in 1980s India.
Athletic Ambition
Kunjarani Devi pursued weightlifting despite societal expectations, proving her dedication and talent.
Institutional Support
Traditional Gender Roles
Lack of institutional support and funding made it difficult for female athletes to succeed.
Athletic Ambition
The Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS) provided direct funding to athletes, helping them focus on training without financial stress.
- Kunjarani Devi
- Indian weightlifter, first Indian to win a medal at the World Championship.
- Saikhom Mirabai Chanu
- Indian weightlifter, won India's first Olympic medal in weightlifting at Tokyo 2020.
- Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS)
- Indian government scheme providing direct funding to athletes.
- Manipur
- Indian state known for producing successful weightlifters.
- Commonwealth Games
- Multi-sport event where Indian weightlifters have achieved significant success.