CWG 2026: Rishikanta Singh’s family celebrates historic silver medal

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The family of Indian weightlifter Chanambam Rishikanta Singh expressed immense pride in his achievement at the Commonwealth Games 2026, where he captured a silver medal with a career-best performance in Glasgow.

Rishikanta secured the silver in the men’s 60kg weightlifting event by lifting a combined total of 264kg (121kg in snatch and 143kg in clean and jerk), delivering India’s inaugural silver medal at the Games. Malaysia’s Mohamad Aniq Kasdan earned the gold medal with a Games-record total of 273kg, while Kenya’s Joshua Mboya secured bronze with 260kg.

Speaking from their home in Imphal, Rishikanta’s younger brother, Chanambam Premchandra, said that while they hoped for a top-podium finish, they were thrilled with his achievement.

“I expected the gold medal from my brother, but unfortunately he got a silver medal, but I am very proud of his achievement,” said Premchandra.

Sharing similar sentiments, Rishikanta’s sister-in-law, Chanambam Ongbi Ichan, highlighted how meaningful it was to witness his relentless dedication rewarded on the international stage.

“We got very excited and happy that his hard work has come to fruition. My in-laws were also very excited and happy,” Ongbi Ichan told ANI.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi also lauded the Manipur weightlifter in a post on X, acknowledging his grit and wishing him future success.

“Very proud of Indian lifter Rishikanta Singh Chanambam for winning a Silver Medal and also achieving his personal best. His determination and outstanding performance have brought immense joy to the nation. May he continue to scale greater heights and inspire many young athletes. Best wishes for his future endeavours!”

Rishikanta’s silver medal adds to India’s Commonwealth tally

Rishikanta’s silver marked India’s second medal of the Glasgow Games following para powerlifter Jhandu Kumar’s bronze, coming just before Olympic star Mirabai Chanu bagged the nation’s first gold in the women’s 48kg weightlifting event.

The 60kg contest featured a standout showing from Rishikanta. He executed clean lifts of 116kg and 119kg before topping his snatch campaign with a personal-best 121kg, briefly setting a Commonwealth Games record. Kasdan matched the 121kg effort to keep the pair tied going into the second half of the contest.

(With inputs from ANI)

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