From Lifting Gas Cylinders to Asian Gold: Maibam Gulubi's Rise
Manipur powerlifter Maibam Gulubi wins gold at the Asian Bench Press Championships in Istanbul, recalling her early days lifting gas cylinders.
Manipur's rising star, Maibam Gulubi, has etched her name in sporting history by clinching a gold medal at the Asian Bench Press Championships. Representing India in the junior women's 57-kg category, Gulubi's journey from a young girl lifting heavy household objects to a continental champion is nothing short of extraordinary.
A Childhood Built on Strength
Reflecting on her humble beginnings, Gulubi shared that her path to professional powerlifting was paved with unconventional training. In her early days, she would often lift gas cylinders and other heavy weights to build her strength. This early physical discipline was deeply influenced by her father, an avid weightlifter, whose passion for the sport ignited her own interest from a very young age.
"In my early days, I would lift gas cylinders and heavy weights," Gulubi revealed, noting that her childhood displays of strength in local sports events eventually caught the attention of community seniors, who urged her to take up weightlifting professionally.
Victory in Istanbul
The 2026 Asian Classic and Equipped Bench Press Championships, held in Istanbul, Turkiye, served as the stage for her historic triumph. Competing under the Asian Powerlifting Federation, Gulubi demonstrated exceptional skill in the junior women's 57-kg category. The championship featured two distinct disciplines:
- Classic Discipline: Where athletes compete without specialized supportive bench press shirts.
- Equipped Category: Where approved supportive equipment is permitted to assist the lifter.
Having only started her professional powerlifting journey two years ago, her rapid ascent to the top of the podium marks a significant milestone for both the athlete and the state of Manipur.
Gratitude and Recognition
Gulubi credited her success to a strong support system, expressing deep gratitude to her parents, her sisters Rojita and Annu, and her dedicated coaches, Sir Inao and Madam Sushila. She also acknowledged the encouragement received from local elders and friends who stood by her throughout her training.
Following her return to India, the champion was honored by Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh. Meeting her at the Secretariat in Mantripukhri, the Chief Minister lauded her achievement on social media, stating that her victory has brought immense pride to both the state and the nation. He expressed his hope that her success would serve as an inspiration for young athletes across the country.