Indian weightlifter Saikhom Mirabai Chanu won gold in the women's 48 kg event at the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow on Sunday [1].
The victory marks Chanu's third consecutive gold medal at the Commonwealth Games [2], cementing her status as a dominant force in international weightlifting and providing India with its first gold of the current Games [2].
Competing on day four of the event [1], Chanu set a new Commonwealth Games total record by lifting 190 kg [3]. This record total was achieved through a snatch lift of 85 kg and a clean and jerk lift of 105 kg [3].
Following the competition, Chanu expressed her gratitude and personal motivation for the achievement. "I have fulfilled my promise given to my mother and coach," Chanu said [3].
The performance drew immediate praise from the highest levels of the Indian government. Prime Minister Narendra Modi said the Manipuri athlete is an inspiration for every Indian [2].
Chanu's victory in Scotland follows a trajectory of consistent success in the 48 kg category. By breaking the Games record, she has not only secured the top podium spot, but has also raised the benchmark for future competitors in the weight class [4].
“I have fulfilled my promise given to my mother and coach.”
Mirabai Chanu's third consecutive gold medal establishes a rare dynasty within the Commonwealth Games weightlifting circuit. By setting a new total record of 190 kg, she demonstrates that she is still improving her peak performance even after achieving multiple championships, signaling a continued era of Indian dominance in the 48 kg category.
