Manipur’s weightlifting star S Bindyarani Devi delivered a record-breaking performance at the National Games, clinching the gold medal in the women’s 55kg category while setting a new National Record in the snatch event.

A Commonwealth Silver Medalist, Bindyarani showed resilience after an initial setback in her first snatch attempt at 83 kg. She bounced back with a stunning 88 kg lift in her final attempt, breaking the national record. In the clean and jerk, she successfully lifted 107 kg in her first attempt, recovered from a failed 112 kg attempt, and secured 113 kg in her last lift. With a total of 201 kg, she fell just one kilogram short of her own national record (202 kg) but dominated the competition to take the top podium spot.

Expressing her joy, Bindyarani said, “I was well prepared, and I am happy with my performance. It is always nice to get a record in your name. Had my second attempt at 112 kg 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 secured the bronze medal, ensuring two podium finishes for the state. Nilam overcame early struggles in snatch, successfully lifting 81 kg in her final attempt. In clean and jerk, she managed 101 kg, narrowly missing her final attempt at 104 kg, but her determined effort secured her a place on the podium.

Meanwhile, Sharabani Das of Bengal claimed the silver medal, lifting 81 kg in snatch and excelling in clean and jerk with 106 kg.

With Bindyarani Devi’s gold and Nilam Devi’s bronze, Manipur once again showcased its dominance in weightlifting. The double medal haul reaffirms the state’s legacy of producing top-tier weightlifters and strengthens its position as a powerhouse in Indian weightlifting.