Did Mirabai Chanu Break Three National Records at the National Weightlifting Championships?
Synopsis
In a stunning display of strength, Olympic silver medalist Mirabai Chanu set three national records at the National Weightlifting Championship 2026. Competing in the women's 48kg category, her remarkable lifts solidify her position as a leading figure in Indian weightlifting. Discover the details of her record-breaking performance and future plans!
Key Takeaways
Mirabai Chanu set three national records at the National Weightlifting Championship 2026 .
She lifted a total of 205kg in the women's 48kg category.
Her performance included lifts of 89kg in snatch and 116kg in clean and jerk.
Mirabai plans to move up to the 53kg category after the Asian Games.
She has consistently excelled in competitions under 50kg categories.
Modinagar, Feb 4 (NationPress) Olympic silver medalist Mirabai Chanu delivered an exceptional performance during the National Weightlifting Championship 2026, where she set three national records in the women’s 48kg category on Wednesday.
In her new weight class, Mirabai recorded a total lift of 205kg, establishing national records in the snatch, clean and jerk, and overall total. The 31-year-old athlete executed a remarkable 89kg in the snatch, followed by a powerful 116kg in the clean and jerk, effortlessly securing the gold medal.
Mirabai's total weight lifted enhanced by an impressive 6kg from her previous best of 199kg (achieved at the 2022 World Championship where she earned a silver medal) to 205kg at the World Championships in December 2023. Previously, at the 2022 World Championships, she held the national clean and jerk record of 115kg and a total of 199kg in the 48kg category.
During the December 2023 World Championships, Mirabai attempted to set a new national snatch record of 91kg but was unable to achieve it. Nonetheless, her best lifts were sufficient to secure victory by 22kg over silver medalist Ronda Soni, while Komal Kohar claimed the bronze medal.
After clinching an Olympic silver medal in Tokyo 2020 at 49kg and finishing fourth in Paris 2024 in the same weight category, Mirabai transitioned to the 48kg category in 2022 following the IWF's elimination of the 49kg category from Olympic qualification.
This move has already proven beneficial. Since then, Mirabai has won first place at the Commonwealth Championships in 2023 and secured second place at the 2022 World Championships, reinforcing her status as one of the elite female weightlifters in India.
Looking forward, the Tokyo Olympic medalist plans to gradually transition to the 53kg category after the Asian Games. The 53kg division will be the lowest women's weight class at the LA 2028 Olympic Games.
Remarkably, all of Mirabai Chanu's significant international achievements, including three medals at the World Weightlifting Championships and three Commonwealth Games medals, have been in sub-50kg categories. This showcases her dominance and versatility across various weight divisions.
Point of View
Mirabai Chanu's recent accomplishments at the National Weightlifting Championships not only exemplify her dedication and skill but also highlight the rising prominence of Indian athletes on the global stage. With her record-breaking performance, Chanu sets a benchmark for aspiring weightlifters and reinforces India's growing legacy in the sport.
NationPress
11 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What records did Mirabai Chanu break?
Mirabai Chanu broke three national records in the women's 48kg category, including the snatch, clean and jerk, and overall total.
What was her total lift at the championships?
Mirabai Chanu achieved a total lift of 205kg at the National Weightlifting Championship 2026.
In which weight category did she compete?
Mirabai competed in the women's 48kg category.
What are her future plans in weightlifting?
Mirabai Chanu plans to transition to the 53kg category after the Asian Games.
How has she performed in previous championships?
Mirabai has previously won a silver medal at the 2022 World Championships and first place at the Commonwealth Championships in 2023.
