Indian weightlifter Mirabai Chanu won the gold medal in the women's 48 kg weightlifting event at the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow [1, 2].

This victory marks a historic achievement for Chanu, who has now secured three successive Commonwealth Games gold medals [3]. The win also provides India with its first gold medal of the Glasgow 2026 Games [4].

To achieve the result, Chanu underwent a rigorous weight-cut to meet the 48 kg class requirement set by her coach. The process involved enduring severe injuries and a strict dietary regimen. Chanu said the preparation required to make weight for the competition was intense.

"I couldn't eat food and haven't drunk water for 3 days," Chanu said [5].

The athlete's commitment to the target weight was a primary driver in her preparation. By adhering to the strict fasting period of three days without food or water, she was able to compete in the designated weight category [5].

The Commonwealth Games in Glasgow opened on July 23, 2026 [6]. Chanu's gold medal adds to a growing tally of medals for India, which has already bagged three medals in the competition [7].

Chanu's performance in Glasgow solidifies her position as a dominant force in women's weightlifting. The physical toll of the weight-cut highlights the extreme measures athletes often undertake to remain competitive in specific weight classes.

“Mirabai Chanu has now secured three successive Commonwealth Games gold medals.”

Chanu's victory establishes a rare 'hat-trick' of gold medals at the Commonwealth Games, cementing her legacy in Indian sports. However, her public disclosure regarding the three-day fast without water and food brings attention to the physical and psychological strain of extreme weight-cutting in combat and strength sports.