Ace Weightlifter Mirabai Chanu Eyes Glory at 2026 Asian Games After Commonwealth Success
Indian weightlifting icon and Olympic medalist Mirabai Chanu is leaving no stone unturned as she gears up for the prestigious 2026 Asian Games, scheduled to kick off on September 19. Fresh off a remarkable hat-trick of gold medals at the Commonwealth Games, the champion weightlifter is fiercely determined to conquer the Asian podium after narrowly missing out on a medal in the previous edition. In an exclusive interview with Shekhar Jha, Chanu opened up about her intensive training regime, mental conditioning, and unwavering passion to bring glory to the nation.
Focusing on Technique, Fitness, and Injury-Free Training
Addressing her current physical conditioning and training schedule, Chanu confirmed that she is completely injury-free and operating at peak physical form. With the guidance of her coaches and support staff, her primary objective has been fine-tuning her lifts and maintaining a disciplined daily routine. "My preparations are progressing in the right direction. Right now, I'm completely focused on daily training and giving my all. I'm completely injury-free and fit, so my focus is on improving my lifts," she shared, emphasizing that passion and physical readiness form the bedrock of her campaign.
Channeling Past Lessons and Shrugging Off Pressure
Reflecting on the heartbreak of missing a medal at the 2022 Asian Games, Chanu noted that every setback serves as a valuable learning experience. Rather than carrying the weight of past disappointments or tournament pressure, she chooses to channel the immense love and support of her countrymen as motivation. "I don't think about pressure at all; I only focus on the positive. Seeing the love and support of my countrymen inspires me to do even better. I'm preparing with complete calm, without any past pressure," she asserted.
Carrying the Hopes of a Billion Minds With Pride
Representing India on international platforms remains the ultimate driving force for the veteran weightlifter. Whether competing at the Olympic Games or the Asian Games, Chanu views the immense expectations of the nation not as a burden, but as her greatest shield and source of strength. As she steps onto the competition stage next month, her sole mission is to execute her strategy with absolute composure and give a hundred percent for the tricolor.
