Orphaned Mizoram Teen Isaac Overcomes Injury, Wins KITG Gold

Raipur, March 2026: Mizoram’s young weightlifter Isaac Malsawmtluanga scripted an inspiring story of resilience as he overcame personal tragedy and injury concerns to win a gold medal at the Khelo India Tribal Games (KITG) 2026.

Having lost both his parents before turning 16, Isaac had nearly given up on the sport. His father, Hminga Malsawmtluanga, died in a road accident in 2018—the same year Isaac began weightlifting—while his mother passed away in 2024 after battling cancer. The double tragedy left the young athlete emotionally shattered and on the verge of quitting.

However, the unwavering support of his uncle, aunt, and childhood coach helped him stay on track. Encouraged to continue pursuing his passion, the 18-year-old fought through adversity to clinch gold in the men’s 60 kg category at the ongoing games.

Despite struggling with a back injury ahead of the competition, Isaac delivered a remarkable performance in the clean and jerk event. After finishing second in the snatch, he lifted a total of 235 kg to secure the gold medal. Moments after his victory, his uncle—who has been a constant source of guidance—embraced him in an emotional celebration.

Speaking about his journey, Isaac said his childhood coach Soma played a crucial role in motivating him to continue weightlifting during difficult times. After showing promise by winning a silver medal in the 60 kg category at the Youth National Championship in Himachal Pradesh in 2024, he faced another setback with his mother’s illness, which placed emotional and financial strain on the family.

During this period, his uncle and aunt, who run a small restaurant in Aizawl’s Ramhlun Vengthar area, took him in and ensured he could continue both his education and training without interruption. Still, the loss of his mother deeply affected him, and he briefly lost interest in the sport.

“I was completely broken after losing both my parents. I had almost decided to quit weightlifting, but my uncle and coach once again encouraged me to move forward,” Isaac said.

Since 2024, Isaac has been training at the Sports Authority of India’s National Centre of Excellence in Imphal, while also pursuing his Class 12 education through the Indira Gandhi National Open Schooling from Aizawl.

His perseverance began to pay off. In 2025, he won a silver medal at a junior competition in Modinagar, followed by a bronze at the National Weightlifting Championship later that year.

Even in the lead-up to the Khelo India Tribal Games, challenges persisted as he suffered a back injury during training. Despite advice from his coach to skip the tournament, Isaac chose to compete and delivered one of the best performances of his career.

Recalling the emotional moment after his win, he said, “Since my father passed away, my uncle has accompanied me to competitions. He was here too. As soon as I won the medal, he lifted me in his arms. That’s when I realised how happy he was.”

Following his victory, Isaac returned to celebrate the achievement with his family, marking a triumphant chapter in his journey of courage and determination.