Weightlifting – Mirabai Chanu Receives Warm Welcome in Ahmedabad Ahead of Commonwealth Games
Weightlifting – Olympic medallist Mirabai Chanu received an enthusiastic welcome during her visit to Ahmedabad, where she expressed gratitude after seeing a large gathering of supporters. The celebrated weightlifter said she was pleasantly surprised by the overwhelming turnout and appreciated the affection shown by people from across the city. The reception reflected the admiration she continues to enjoy among sports enthusiasts as India looks ahead to hosting the next Commonwealth Games.
Chanu Delighted by Enthusiastic Reception
Speaking during her visit, Mirabai Chanu shared her happiness at meeting so many people who had gathered to greet her. She said the scale of the welcome exceeded her expectations and described the atmosphere as truly heartwarming. According to the Olympic medallist, it felt as though the entire city had come together to extend their support, making the visit a memorable experience.
Focus Turns to Commonwealth Games Preparation
Looking ahead, Chanu spoke about the opportunity for India to host the upcoming Commonwealth Games. She said the preparations over the past year have been encouraging and expressed confidence that the event would become a proud moment for the country. The weightlifting star added that she is fully committed to her training and aims to deliver one of her strongest performances when the competition begins. She also conveyed her excitement about representing India on home soil and contributing to the country’s success.
Minister Recommends Arjuna Award Recognition
In a related development, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Ayush and Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare, Prataprao Ganpatrao Jadhav, has written to Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya recommending that Mirabai Chanu be considered for this year’s Arjuna Award. According to an official statement, the recommendation was made in recognition of her remarkable achievements and lasting contribution to Indian weightlifting.
The minister praised Chanu’s consistent performances on the international stage, noting that she has brought significant recognition to India through her success in major competitions. He highlighted her achievements as one of the country’s most accomplished athletes and acknowledged the pride she has brought to the nation through her dedication and excellence.
Achievements That Strengthened Indian Weightlifting
In his communication, Jadhav pointed to Chanu’s outstanding record at the Commonwealth Games, where she secured gold medals across multiple editions. He also noted that she became the first Indian athlete to win a gold medal for the country during those respective editions of the event. Her performances in the 48 kg category, including record-setting lifts in the snatch, clean and jerk, and total weight categories, were also highlighted as milestones in Indian sporting history.
The minister further mentioned that Chanu has already received several prestigious honours, including the Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award, the Padma award, and an Olympic medal, recognising her consistent contribution to Indian sports over the years.
Long-Standing Dream Yet to Be Fulfilled
Despite receiving several of the country’s highest sporting honours, Mirabai Chanu has not yet been presented with the Arjuna Award. According to the minister, earning this recognition has remained one of her personal aspirations since the early days of her training in a small village in Manipur.
Jadhav stated that conferring the Arjuna Award on Chanu would appropriately acknowledge her sustained excellence, commitment, and contribution to Indian weightlifting. He also described her journey from humble beginnings to becoming one of India’s most respected athletes as a source of inspiration for aspiring sportspersons across the country, demonstrating how determination and perseverance can lead to remarkable success on the global stage.