Commonwealth Games 2026: Mirabai Chanu makes history by winning her third consecutive gold; secures India's first gold medal
India's star weightlifter Mirabai Chanu won the gold medal in the women's 48kg category at the Commonwealth Games 2026 by lifting a total of 190kg (85kg snatch + 105kg clean and jerk). With this victory, she set a record by winning gold at the Commonwealth Games for the third consecutive time and secured India's first gold of the competition. Mirabai has demonstrated consistency and excellence by winning medals across four consecutive editions of the Commonwealth Games, spanning from 2014 to 2026. An Olympic silver medalist and World Championship gold medalist, Mirabai Chanu is one of the most successful athletes in Indian weightlifting and serves as an inspiration for the country's next generation of athletes.
India's star weightlifter Mirabai Chanu won the gold medal in the women's 48kg category at the Commonwealth Games 2026 by lifting a total of 190kg (85kg snatch + 105kg clean and jerk). With this victory, she retained her title and achieved the distinction of winning gold at the Commonwealth Games for the third consecutive time. This also marked India's first gold medal of the competition.
Performance Highlights
Despite failing her first attempt in the snatch category, Mirabai successfully lifted 82kg in her second attempt and 85kg in her third. After an unsuccessful first attempt in the clean and jerk, she secured the gold medal by lifting 105kg in her second attempt. This performance showcases her mental toughness, technical proficiency, and high-level competitive ability.
Commonwealth Games Record
Mirabai Chanu ranks among India's most successful weightlifters at the Commonwealth Games. She has won medals across four consecutive editions: 2014 (Silver), 2018 (Gold), 2022 (Gold), and 2026 (Gold). This achievement stands as a testament to her consistency and outstanding performance on the international stage.
Significance for India
With this gold medal, India made a strong start to its medal campaign at the 2026 Commonwealth Games. Weightlifting has long been one of India's most successful sports at the Commonwealth Games. The performances of Mirabai Chanu and other Indian weightlifters highlight India's sporting prowess and growing potential in international competition.
Mirabai Chanu's Broader Sporting Contribution
Mirabai Chanu's achievements extend beyond the Commonwealth Games. She is an Olympic silver medalist and a World Weightlifting Championships gold medalist, having won medals in numerous international competitions. Her accomplishments have brought new recognition to weightlifting in India and inspired young athletes.
Key Takeaways for the UPSC Exam
Mirabai Chanu won the gold medal in the women's 48 kg category at the 2026 Commonwealth Games.
She secured the gold by lifting a total of 190 kg (85 kg + 105 kg).
This marks her third consecutive gold medal and fourth medal overall at the Commonwealth Games.
This was India's first gold medal at the 2026 Commonwealth Games.
Weightlifting is considered one of India's most successful sports at the Commonwealth Games.
Mirabai Chanu ranks among India's best weightlifters, owing to her Olympic silver medal, World Championship gold medal, and numerous other international achievements.
