Mirabai Chanu Secures Silver, Leads Indian Team
Indian weightlifter Mirabai Chanu delivered a standout performance at the 2025 World Weightlifting Championships, earning a silver medal in the women’s 48 kg category. The event was held in Førde, Norway, on October 2.
She lifted a total of 199 kg, placing second behind Ri Song-gum of North Korea, who lifted 213 kg. No Indian athlete surpassed her in the weight class event.
India’s Lineup and Expectations
Chanu led a 14-member Indian contingent comprising both women and men lifters. The women’s squad included Koyel Bar, Bindyarani Devi, Nirupama Devi, Harjinder Kaur, Vanshita Verma, and Mehak Sharma across categories from 48 kg to 86 kg. On the men’s side, names such as Rishikanta Singh, Muthupandi Raja, and Ajith Narayana featured in categories between 60 kg and 110 kg.
Earlier in 2022, Chanu had won a silver medal in the 49 kg category. Her gold win in the 48 kg class in 2017 remains one of her most celebrated achievements. In August 2025, she also returned to form by winning the 48 kg gold at the Commonwealth Weightlifting Championships.
Significance and Road Ahead
This silver medal adds to Chanu’s international accolades and establishes her as a leading contender ahead of other major tournaments. The World Championships here also serve as a qualifying event for future multi-sport events, raising the importance of her podium finish.
