First Indian Woman to Win Olympic Medal, Know Her Name

Karnam Malleswari, born on June 1, 1975, is a retired Indian weightlifter who made history by becoming the first Indian woman to win an Olympic medal. Her remarkable journey in sports is marked by numerous achievements and accolades.

First Woman to win an Olympic Medal

In 2000, at the Sydney Olympics, Malleswari lifted a total of 240 kg—110 kg in the snatch and 130 kg in the clean and jerk—securing the bronze medal. This victory was significant as she became not only the first Indian woman but also the first Indian weightlifter, male or female, to achieve this honor. Her medal was India’s only podium finish at the 2000 Olympics, solidifying her legacy in Indian sports.

Early Life and Training of Karnam Malleswari

Malleswari was born into a Telugu Brahmin family in Srikakulam, Andhra Pradesh. From a young age, she showed great potential in sports, starting her weightlifting career at the age of 12 under the guidance of coach Neelamshetty Appanna. Her talent was quickly recognized by the Sports Authority of India, leading her to join the national camp in 1990.

Career Highlights of Karnam Malleswari, First Woman to win an Olympic Medal

Malleswari’s career is decorated with numerous accomplishments:

• World Championships: She won the world title in the 54 kg division in 1994 and 1995 and earned a bronze medal in 1993 and 1996.
• Asian Championships: In 1995, she won gold at the Asian Weightlifting Championships in Korea.
• Medals: Over her career, Malleswari accumulated 29 international medals, including 11 gold medals.

Awards and Recognition

Malleswari’s contributions to sports have been recognized with several prestigious awards:

• Arjuna Award (1994): Awarded for outstanding achievements in sports.
• Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna (1999): India’s highest sporting honor.
• Padma Shri (1999): A civilian award recognizing her exceptional service in the field of sports.

Personal Life of Karnam Malleswari

In 1997, Malleswari married fellow weightlifter Rajesh Tyagi. They have a son together, born in 2001. Despite the demands of motherhood and her career, she aimed to compete in the 2002 Commonwealth Games but withdrew after her father’s death. Malleswari eventually retired after the 2004 Olympics.