Residents of Nongpok Kakching in Imphal East district, Chanu’s hometown, were glued to television sets on Saturday night. When his gold was confirmed, they burst into joy.
His mother Tombi Devi said she couldn’t sleep the night before the competition and was just praying for her win.
“I’m so proud of her. We stayed up late last night to witness her event. Now her sisters, loved ones and neighbors celebrate with the tricolor, and some indulge in the traditional Thabal Chongba dance,” she said.
Lifting 201kg has never been easy, but thanks to the love and wishes of billions of people at home, every challenge is just one… https://t.co/7aWYgnc85F
— Saikhom Mirabai Chanu (@mirabai_chanu) 1659210566000
Chanu (49kg) smashed all records, winning four of them in a power-packed performance, to claim India’s first gold medal at the Games on Saturday.
The Olympic silver medalist erased the Games record in the clean and jerk as well as in the total lift.
#TeamIndia’s first gold at the @birminghamcg22 Commonwealth Games comes in the women’s.co.co.uk.
— Team India (@WeAreTeamIndia) 1659200216000
Chief Minister N Biren Singh said he was very proud of Manipur’s “superstar girl”.
“There is no better feeling than seeing our tricolor flying high on the world stage. The whole nation is proud of you Mirabai,” he said.