Who is India’s first female Olympic medallist?

Karnam Malleswari, a former weightlifter from India, made history by becoming the first Indian woman to secure an Olympic medal. She achieved this feat by winning a bronze in the women’s 69kg category at the 2000 Sydney Olympics.

Malleswari’s journey in weightlifting began at the young age of 12, under the tutelage of coach Neelamshetty Appanna. Seeking better training opportunities, she relocated to Delhi, where her married sister resided.

The Sports Authority of India quickly recognized the young athlete’s potential. At the age of 15, Malleswari joined the national camp, and just four years later, she emerged as the world champion in the 54-kg class.

Malleswari’s first significant achievement on the international stage came in the form of a bronze medal in the 54kg category at the 1993 Melbourne World Championships.
She continued her success by clinching gold at the 1994 Istanbul World Championships and securing a silver at the Hiroshima Asian Games.

The pinnacle of Malleswari’s career arrived at the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games. As she lifted 110 kg in the snatch and 130 kg in the clean and jerk for a total of 240 kg, she took the bronze medal and became India’s first woman to win an Olympic medal.

This historic achievement solidified her place in both Olympic and Indian sports history.