When it comes to weightlifting, Odisha’s Golden Girls are rewriting history and proving that India’s strength doesn’t just lie in cricket or wrestling—it’s alive and kicking in the world of Olympic lifting too. At the Commonwealth Weightlifting Championships 2025, held in Ahmedabad, India, Mina Santa grabbed gold, while her teammate Sneha Soren clinched silver. Together, they lit up the stage and made Odisha, and all of India, proud.
This isn’t just about two medals—it’s about grit, determination, and the growing influence of women athletes in sports that were once considered out of reach for them. Mina and Sneha’s performances highlight not only their personal achievements but also the incredible progress of Indian weightlifting on the international stage.
Odisha’s Golden Girls Dominate Commonwealth Weightlifting
| Athlete | Category / Event | Medal | Total Weight Lifted | Career Note | Official Reference |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mina Santa | 55 kg Senior Women | Gold | 180 kg (81 kg snatch + 99 kg clean & jerk) | Rising star, record breaker | Olympics.com |
| Sneha Soren | 55 kg Senior Women | Silver | 185 kg (81 kg snatch + 104 kg clean & jerk) | Veteran lifter, Ekalavya Awardee | Tribune India |
The story of Odisha’s Golden Girls—Mina Santa and Sneha Soren—isn’t just about gold and silver medals. It’s about determination, breaking barriers, and inspiring millions. Their triumph at the Commonwealth Weightlifting Championships 2025 proves that when you mix discipline, resilience, and passion, nothing can hold you back.
For India, this is more than sports—it’s a movement. And for the rest of us, whether we’re athletes, students, or professionals, Mina and Sneha’s journey is a masterclass in perseverance and pride.
Why This Win Matters
Let’s break it down:
- Representation: Odisha is becoming a powerhouse in Indian weightlifting, with athletes like Jhilli Dalabehera and Jyoshna Sabar already making their mark. Mina and Sneha’s medals only add to this legacy.
- Performance stats: Mina’s combined lift of 180 kg earned her the gold, while Sneha, despite lifting a heavier 185 kg total, secured silver due to competition structure and technical scoring.
- Symbolism: For young girls in India—especially from smaller towns—this victory is a beacon of hope that with the right support, global success is possible.
This story resonates in the U.S. too. Just like how Simone Biles shattered stereotypes in gymnastics or Serena Williams in tennis, these Indian lifters are showing the next generation that “girls can do anything, and then some.”
The Journey of Mina Santa
Mina Santa’s name is relatively new on the big stage, but she has been grinding behind the scenes for years. Known for her discipline and fierce training, she first gained attention after breaking a national youth record in the 55 kg category with an 81 kg snatch and 99 kg clean & jerk.
Her gold in Ahmedabad isn’t just luck—it’s the product of consistent hard work, strong coaching, and government support under India’s Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS). If you’re looking for a role model who embodies humility and hustle, Mina’s your girl.
The Legacy of Sneha Soren
Sneha, from Mayurbhanj, Odisha, is no stranger to international competitions. She won her first international medal back in 2017 at the Commonwealth Weightlifting Championships in Gold Coast, Australia. Since then, she’s built a reputation as one of India’s most consistent performers.
She’s also the recipient of Odisha’s Ekalavya Award, given to the state’s top sporting talents. With her total lift of 185 kg, she proved she still has the fire and strength to compete at the highest level.
What’s inspiring here is her longevity. In a sport where injuries and early retirements are common, Sneha’s ability to stay relevant is a lesson for professionals everywhere: consistency beats everything else.
Practical Lessons From Odisha’s Golden Girls
Weightlifting might seem far removed from everyday life, but the principles behind Mina and Sneha’s success are universal. Here’s how their story translates into lessons we can all use:
1. Discipline Wins Over Talent
These athletes train for years to perfect a few seconds on the platform. Similarly, in your career or studies, showing up consistently matters more than occasional flashes of brilliance.
2. Small Towns, Big Dreams
Both Mina and Sneha come from humble backgrounds in Odisha. Their rise proves that greatness doesn’t need a fancy start. With dedication, the world is your stage.
3. Teamwork and Support Systems
Behind every medal are coaches, physiotherapists, and supportive families. No one succeeds alone—whether you’re building a startup, playing sports, or climbing the corporate ladder.
4. Handling Pressure
Lifting hundreds of pounds in front of a roaring crowd isn’t easy. But they channel pressure into performance—a skill professionals in any field need when facing deadlines or big presentations.
The Bigger Picture: Women in Sports
India has historically celebrated male athletes, but this tide is changing. From Mary Kom in boxing to P.V. Sindhu in badminton, women are owning the stage. Now, Mina and Sneha join this growing list of female sports icons.
Globally, too, women athletes are demanding (and finally getting) equal recognition. According to Forbes, women’s sports viewership has surged by 30% in the last five years. That’s proof that the world wants more stories like Mina’s and Sneha’s.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Get Into Weightlifting
Inspired? Here’s a quick starter guide for beginners (yes, even if you’re 10 years old and just curious):
- Start with Bodyweight – Push-ups, squats, and planks build your foundation.
- Learn Proper Technique – Watch certified trainers or use resources like USA Weightlifting. Technique > heavy weights.
- Use Light Weights First – Dumbbells or a light barbell before moving to Olympic lifts.
- Focus on Nutrition – Protein, hydration, and recovery are key.
- Find a Mentor or Club – Whether in India or the U.S., joining a local club keeps you safe and motivated.
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FAQs
Q1: Why did Sneha Soren get silver even with a higher total than Mina Santa?
A: In weightlifting, tie-breakers can depend on body weight, order of successful lifts, or other technicalities. It’s not always just about lifting the most.
Q2: How old are Mina Santa and Sneha Soren?
A: Mina is in her early 20s and rising fast, while Sneha, a seasoned lifter, is in her late 20s.
Q3: Can kids try weightlifting?
A: Yes, but with supervision. Many clubs in the U.S. and India introduce Olympic lifting basics to kids as young as 10, focusing more on form than heavy weights.
Q4: Where can I follow official updates about Indian weightlifting?
A: Check out Indian Weightlifting Federation and Olympics.com.
