Khelo India Star Babulal Hembrom’s Journey From Bamboo Training To International Medals

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When former Army coach Gurvinder Singh advised Babulal Hembrom to shift his focus to weightlifting based on his physique, the biggest hurdle for the teenager from Keribanda village in Jharkhand's Ramgarh district was arranging funds to pursue the sport.

Instead of giving up, Babulal improvised. He began training with bamboo sticks and iron rods found at nearby construction sites before eventually joining the Jharkhand State Sports Promotion Society coaching centre. That opportunity required him to travel nearly 60 km daily to train under Gurvinder.

"It was a difficult phase when I started the sport in 2018. Financially, we couldn't afford equipment or proper kits, so I trained using bamboo sticks and iron rods. Later, I received coaching support from JSPS and my coach, and that helped me reach where I am today," said Babulal, who recently secured a silver medal in the men's 60kg category at the Khelo India Tribal Games 2026.

The 19-year-old, the youngest among five siblings, comes from a modest background. His mother works as a cook at a local school, while his father takes up odd jobs to support the family.

"My parents struggled to maintain financial stability, but I believe that winning medals at Khelo India events will gradually improve our situation," Babulal said.

Babulal has steadily built a reputation at both national and international levels in the age-group circuit. In 2024, he clinched gold in the 49kg category at the Khelo India Youth Games in Chennai. He later added medals at the IWF World Youth Weightlifting Championships and the Asian Junior and Youth Weightlifting Championships.

Now transitioning to the senior circuit, Babulal has set his sights on representing India at major international events. He is currently part of the national training camp in Patiala.

"This silver medal at the Khelo India Tribal Games has boosted my confidence. When I return to the national camp, I will discuss future targets with my coaches and train accordingly. My dream is to represent India at events like the Commonwealth Games, Asian Games and World Championships," he added.