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In a heartwarming tale of determination and support, 15-year-old Mangaleibi Takhellambam, hailing from a weaver's family in Imphal, clinched the silver medal in the women's individual foil category at the Khelo India Youth Games in Chennai. Coming from a background of weavers, Mangaleibi shifted her focus from the swift movements of a needle to the elegant art of fencing, catching inspiration from a fencer she observed.

Grandmother's support and financial sacrifices

Mangaleibi's biggest supporter turned out to be her grandmother, who enrolled her in a nearby fencing academy at the age of nine. The family, engaged in traditional Manipuri clothing weaving, faced financial challenges, but Mangaleibi's grandmother selflessly spent her late husband's pension on the young fencer's equipment and attire. Despite the financial constraints, Mangaleibi's parents also extended their support.

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Commencing her career with a silver at the sub-junior nationals in Kerala (2021-22) and securing bronze at the junior cadet nationals in Gujarat, Mangaleibi aimed for gold at the Khelo India Youth Games. Her determination was fueled by the desire to win for her grandmother, who consistently inspired her not to give up on her goals. Mangaleibi, a Sports Authority of India trainee at NCOE, Takyel campus, expressed mixed feelings about her silver win but emphasized that it would motivate her to strive for gold in the future.

Role model in Mirabai Chanu

Drawing inspiration from Tokyo Olympics silver medallist weightlifter Mirabai Chanu, Mangaleibi aspires to follow in her footsteps. Despite the difference in sports, Mangaleibi admires Chanu's dedication and the pride she brought to the country at the Olympics.

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In summary, Mangaleibi Takhellambam's journey from a weaver's family to a silver medalist at the Khelo India Youth Games showcases her determination, family support, and aspirations to achieve even greater heights in the field of fencing, inspired by her grandmother and role model Mirabai Chanu.