Indian Army Honors Mirabai Chanu for Stellar Performance at Paris Olympics

The Indian Army paid tribute to Olympic weightlifting champion Saikhom Mirabai Chanu in a special ceremony held at her residence in Manipur on Monday. This honor was bestowed upon Chanu to acknowledge her exceptional performance at the Paris Olympics 2024, recognizing her dedication and contribution to the nation’s pride on the international stage.

Senior officials from the Indian Army visited Chanu’s home to present her with a commemorative memento. The gesture highlighted the Army’s respect and admiration for Chanu’s perseverance and excellence in sports, which have inspired millions across India. The event was not only a moment of pride for Chanu and her family but also for the entire state of Manipur, renowned for producing some of India’s top athletes.

Mirabai Chanu’s performance at the Paris Olympics garnered widespread acclaim. Although she narrowly missed out on a medal, securing a fourth-place finish in the women’s 49kg weightlifting event, her achievement continues to shine brightly. Chanu delivered a strong performance, ending with a combined total of 199kg, just shy of the medals. China’s Hou Zhihui won gold with a combined effort of 206kg, while Romania’s Mihaela Valentina Cambei took silver with 205kg, and Thailand’s Surodchana Khambao earned bronze with 200kg.

The Indian Army’s recognition of Mirabai Chanu is part of its broader initiative to celebrate and support sports talent across the nation. The Army has consistently championed athletes who represent India on global platforms, underscoring its commitment to fostering sporting excellence.

Chanu, who previously earned a silver medal at the Tokyo Olympics, remains a beacon of inspiration for aspiring athletes and continues to embody the spirit of determination and hard work. The acknowledgment from the Indian Army reflects the nation’s appreciation for her contributions and her unwavering commitment to her sport.