Imphal, July 24 (UNI): People of Manipur celebrated the spectacular performance of Saikhom Mirabai Chanu in the Tokyo Olympics as she won the silver medal.
The sound of celebration could be heard in many parts of the state though total curfew was imposed in the state due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
Chanu’s parents, family members were all glued to the television set at their home at Nongpok Kakching here and they all jumped in ecstasy as she won the silver medal.
Chief Minister N Biren Singh said on a social media platform, “What a day! What a win for India. Mirabai Chanu wins Silver in Weightlifting Women’s 49kg category. India has opened its medal tally in Tokyo Olympics. You have made the country proud today. Bravo.”
Dr Th Radheshyam, president of Manipur Olympics Association, said, “Today is a great day for all of us Indians as Mirabai Chanu got the silver in 49 category weight lifting in Tokyo Olympics. He hoped other athletes will also be successful in bringing laurel for the country.”
In 2014, Chanu won the silver medal in the 48 kg weight category in Commonwealth Games and took part in the 2016 Rio Olympics. In 2017, she won the Gold medal in the Women’s 48 kg category in the 2017 World Weightlifting Championships held at Anaheim, CA, United States.
Mirabai Chanu gave India a medal in weightlifting after Malleswari won a bronze in 2000 Olympics. Chanu lifted 84kg and 87kg. China’s Zhihu won the gold.
