Mirabai Chanu Cries as National Anthem Plays After Third Consecutive Commonwealth Gold

Indian weightlifter Mirabai Chanu broke down in tears on the podium in Glasgow on Sunday after winning her third consecutive Commonwealth Games gold medal. As the national anthem 'Jana Gana Mana' played and the Indian flag rose, Chanu struggled to contain her emotions, singing along with tears streaming down her face.

Competing in the women's 48kg category, Chanu lifted a combined total of 190 kg — 85 kg in snatch and 105 kg in clean and jerk — setting new Commonwealth Games records in both disciplines. Her performance secured India's first gold medal at the 2026 Commonwealth Games.

Speaking to the news agency ANI, Chanu described the moment as overwhelming. “They were tears of joy because I had won the first gold medal for India in these Commonwealth Games. I want to thank all the people of India for praying so earnestly for me. Those were tears of happiness,” she said.

The victory marks the latest milestone in a remarkable career. Chanu first won gold at the Commonwealth Games in Gold Coast in 2018 and successfully defended her title in Birmingham in 2022. Her Commonwealth Games journey began with a silver medal in Glasgow in 2014. Beyond the Games, she made history by winning a silver medal at the Tokyo Olympics in 2021 — the first Indian weightlifter to achieve that feat.

Videos of Chanu's emotional reaction on the podium quickly spread on social media, drawing widespread praise. One user wrote, “It’s true devotion.” Another commented, “As a teenager, she lifted firewood for her family. Today she has lifted India’s flag with pride. Three-time Gold Medalist in Commonwealth Games. Our Chanu, Our Pride!”

Chanu's latest triumph cements her status as one of India's most decorated weightlifters and continues to inspire millions across the country.