Indian weightlifter Raja Muthupandi produced a stunning comeback to claim the silver medal in the men's 65kg category at the Commonwealth Games 2026 in Glasgow on Tuesday. The 24-year-old from Tamil Nadu lifted a total of 298kg (135kg snatch + 163kg clean and jerk), finishing behind Malaysia's Aniq Kasdan (305kg) who took gold. This was India's 15th medal at the Games, and the second in weightlifting after Mirabai Chanu's gold in the women's 49kg.
Muthupandi's Gritty Performance
Muthupandi, who had suffered a back injury earlier this year, was not considered a medal favorite. However, he silenced critics with a flawless final attempt in the clean and jerk, lifting 163kg to leapfrog from fourth to second place. "I knew I had to give my best after missing the snatch target. My coaches and the support staff kept me calm," he said after the event.
His snatch opener of 135kg was a personal best, but he failed his next two attempts. In the clean and jerk, he successfully lifted 158kg in his second attempt before nailing 163kg for the silver. The bronze went to England's Jon-Luc Santia with 289kg.
India's Medal Tally Swells
With Muthupandi's silver, India now has 5 gold, 6 silver, and 4 bronze medals at the 2026 Commonwealth Games. The medal count is expected to rise further as events in boxing, wrestling, and athletics continue. According to the Indian Olympic Association, this is the best start for India in an overseas Commonwealth Games.
Weightlifting has contributed significantly, with medals from Chanu, Muthupandi, and earlier from Sanket Sargar (silver in 55kg). "We are proud of Raja's achievement. He worked very hard despite the injury," said Indian weightlifting head coach Vijay Sharma.
Road to Redemption
Muthupandi's journey to the podium was not easy. He suffered a herniated disc in January 2026 and had to undergo intensive physiotherapy. Many doubted his selection for the Games, but he proved his mettle. "I never gave up. I visualized this moment every day," he added.
The competition was fierce, with Kasdan setting a personal best of 305kg. Muthupandi's clean and jerk of 163kg was the second-best in the field. He also improved his total by 5kg from the 2025 Asian Championships, where he had finished fourth.
Looking Ahead
India's weightlifting team continues to shine on the international stage. Muthupandi's silver adds to the growing list of Indian lifters who have won medals at multi-sport events. With the Olympics approaching in 2028, his performance bodes well for future competitions.
The Commonwealth Games in Glasgow have been a success for India so far, with athletes across disciplines contributing to the medal tally. Muthupandi's story of resilience will inspire many young athletes back home.
