Bindyarani Devi Strikes Gold as Manipur Secures Two Medals in National Games Weightlifting

Manipur's weightlifting star S. Bindyarani Devi delivered an outstanding performance at the National Games, clinching the gold medal in the women's 55kg category.

She also set a new national record in the snatch segment, further cementing her reputation as one of India's finest weightlifters.

The Commonwealth Games silver medalist showcased incredible determination despite an initial hiccup in the snatch round. Missing her first attempt at 83 kg, Bindyarani bounced back with an exceptional lift of 88 kg in her final try, rewriting the national record books. Her momentum carried into the clean and jerk segment, where she began strong with a successful lift of 107 kg.

Although she faltered at 112 kg in her second attempt, she finished on a high by lifting 113 kg in her last attempt. With a total lift of 201 kg-just one kilogram shy of her own national record of 202 kg-Bindyarani secured a well-deserved gold medal.

Reflecting on her achievement, Bindyarani said, "I was well-prepared, and I am happy with my performance. It's always nice to get a record in your name. It's good that now both snatch and clean & jerk records are in my name." Addressing her decision not to go for 115 kg to surpass her overall record, she explained, "My second attempt of 112 kg was not successful, so I thought that it's better to finish with a good lift. Had the second attempt been successful, I would have gone for 115 kg. But it's okay, I am happy with my performance."

Adding to Manipur's success, L. Nilam Devi bagged the bronze medal with a commendable display of grit. Nilam overcame early struggles in the snatch, managing to lift 81 kg in her final attempt after two unsuccessful tries. She performed strongly in the clean and jerk, lifting 98 kg and 101 kg in her first two attempts. Although she missed 104 kg in her last try, her efforts secured a second podium finish for the state.

Meanwhile, Bengal's Sharabani Das claimed the silver medal with a steady performance. She lifted 78 kg and 81 kg in the snatch and excelled in the clean and jerk, completing successful lifts of 102 kg and 106 kg before skipping her final attempt.

Bindyarani's exceptional display and Manipur's double medal haul underline the state's dominance in weightlifting. With this performance, Manipur once again solidifies its status as a powerhouse in Indian sports, inspiring future generations to follow in the footsteps of its accomplished athletes.