Celebrated on June 23rd, International Olympic Day honours the spirit of the Olympic Games and encourages participation in sports globally. For India, the achievements of its female athletes on this prestigious stage are a source of immense pride and inspiration. To date, seven Indian women have won a total of eight Olympic medals, each representing a milestone in the country's sporting history. Their Olympic successes brought glory to the nation and also inspired countless young athletes to chase their dreams, setting new benchmarks in the world of women’s sports.
Today, we celebrate these remarkable women and their historic accomplishments.
Karnam Malleswari - Bronze in Weightlifting (Sydney 2000)
Karnam Malleswari made history by becoming the first Indian woman to win an Olympic medal. Competing in the women's 54kg weightlifting category at the Sydney 2000 Olympics, she lifted a total of 240 kg to clinch the bronze. Malleswari's groundbreaking achievement put Indian women's weightlifting on the global map and spurred a generation of female athletes in the country to pursue their Olympic dreams fearlessly.
Saina Nehwal - Bronze in Badminton (London 2012)
At the London 2012 Olympics, Saina Nehwal made history by winning the bronze medal in women's singles badminton. This victory marked India's first Olympic medal in badminton, highlighting Nehwal's status as a trailblazer in the sport. Her tenacity and skill on the court have been instrumental in popularising badminton in India, paving the way for future champions.
Mary Kom - Bronze in Boxing (London 2012)
Mary Kom, affectionately known as ’Magnificent Mary’, won the bronze medal in the women's flyweight boxing category at the London 2012 Olympics. As a six-time world champion, her Olympic success further cemented her legacy as one of the greatest female boxers of all time. Mary Kom's journey from a small village in Manipur to the Olympic podium is a testament to her extraordinary dedication and resilience.
PV Sindhu - Silver and Bronze in Badminton (Rio 2016 and Tokyo 2020)
PV Sindhu has emerged as one of India's most celebrated athletes with her stellar performances in badminton. She won a silver medal at the Rio 2016 Olympics, becoming the first Indian woman to reach an Olympic badminton final. Sindhu continued her impressive form by winning a bronze medal at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, showcasing her consistent excellence and determination to succeed at the highest level.
Sakshi Malik - Bronze in Wrestling (Rio 2016)
Sakshi Malik created history at the Rio 2016 Olympics by becoming the first Indian woman wrestler to win an Olympic medal. Competing in the women's 58kg category, she secured the bronze medal in a thrilling comeback victory. Malik's achievement was a landmark moment for Indian wrestling, encouraging young women across the country to take up the sport.
Mirabai Chanu - Silver in Weightlifting (Tokyo 2020)
Mirabai Chanu's silver medal in the women's 49kg weightlifting category at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics was a moment of immense pride for India. Her remarkable lift of a total of 202 kg demonstrated her exceptional strength and skill. Chanu's success has been a beacon of hope and motivation for aspiring weightlifters in India.
Lovlina Borgohain - Bronze in Boxing (Tokyo 2020)
At the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, Lovlina Borgohain won the bronze medal in the women's welterweight boxing category. Her achievement was a significant milestone for Indian boxing, underscoring the depth of talent in the sport. Borgohain's journey from Assam to the Olympic podium reflects her unwavering commitment and perseverance.
As we celebrate International Olympic Day, the accomplishments of these seven extraordinary Indian women are a powerful reminder of the heights that sportswomen can achieve through talent, dedication, hard work, and passion.