Sports

Ajay, who hails from a small village in Andhra Pradesh, began his weightlifting journey largely inspired by his father, Valluri Srinivas. Srinivas had won a bronze medal in the 56kg category at the 2010 Commonwealth Games in Delhi. Sixteen years later, his son has now gone one step further by claiming silver on the Commonwealth stage.

Ajay came within just one kilogram of securing the top spot. He began his campaign strongly in the snatch, successfully lifting 145kg in his opening attempt. After an unsuccessful second attempt, he returned to complete a 149kg lift, setting a new Commonwealth Games record in the snatch and putting himself in a strong position for gold.

The contest, however, went down to the wire in the clean and jerk. Ajay successfully lifted 181kg in his first attempt but could not improve on that mark with his subsequent efforts. Malaysia’s Erry Hidayat Muhammad eventually lifted 184kg, finishing just one kilogram ahead of the Indian and taking the gold medal. Ajay had to settle for silver, but his overall performance still marked a significant achievement in his young career.

For Ajay, the medal is also the culmination of years of hard work and family support. Growing up in a modest village in Andhra Pradesh, he developed a passion for weightlifting by watching his father compete. Srinivas, who now works as a flower farmer, also helped his son take his first steps in the sport by providing him with basic training and guidance.

The family connection makes Ajay’s achievement even more special. His father had created history for the family by winning a Commonwealth medal in 2010, and now, more than a decade later, Ajay has returned to the same stage and added another medal to their collection—this time with an even better finish.

India has also enjoyed a strong run in weightlifting at the ongoing Commonwealth Games. Six Indian weightlifters have so far made it to the podium. Mirabai Chanu secured gold, while Ajay Babu, Gyaneshwari Yadav, Muthupandi Raja and Rishikant Singh won silver medals. Bindyarani Devi added a bronze to India's tally.

Ajay's silver, however, stands out for its emotional significance, a medal that not only reflects his own talent and determination but also carries forward a sporting tradition that began with his father 16 years ago.