In a heartwarming display of family legacy and athletic prowess, veteran weightlifter Rakhi Halder and her daughter Rajyashree clinched gold medals in the women’s 69kg and 58kg categories respectively on the same day at the East Zone ASMITA Khelo India Women’s Weightlifting League in Kolkata.
The event, held from 26-30 November 2025 at Khudiram Anushilan Kendra, saw the duo compete side-by-side, with Rakhi also serving as her daughter’s coach.
Rajyashree’s triumph followed her silver medal at the Khelo India University Games (KIUG) 2025 in Bikaner, where she trailed Rima Bhoi by just 2kg, marking a rapid ascent in her career.
A Family Bond Forged in Iron
Rakhi Halder, a six-time international medallist including a 2019 Commonwealth Championships gold, defied age to dominate the 69kg category, lifting with the precision of her peak years.
Her 19-year-old daughter Rajyashree, a second-year student at Adamas University, powered through the 58kg event after a six-year journey in the sport, often finishing fourth or fifth until recent breakthroughs.
Rajyashree reflected on her KIUG silver: “It feels great to earn a silver medal. This is significant for me; I have mostly finished in fourth or fifth place until now.”
The pair’s shared platform highlighted their unique dynamic, with Rakhi mentoring Rajyashree amid a backdrop of wholesome scenes that captivated onlookers.
Event previews noted their emotional bond as a driving force, turning competition into a celebration of resilience. Organisers praised the duo for embodying dedication, with social media posts from The Bridge capturing the “wholesome scenes” of their dual victory.
Event Spotlight and Rising Talents
The ASMITA League, under the Khelo India initiative, promotes women’s weightlifting across zones, fostering grassroots talent from states like Mizoram, Odisha, and Bihar.
Mizoram’s Annie Lalruatfeli Colney grabbed gold in the 53kg youth category, while Odisha’s Romali Pradhan secured silver in 63kg, and Assam’s Luna Sonowal swept multiple golds.
Bihar teams also shone with several medals, underscoring the league’s role in unearthing national prospects.
Rajyashree’s rivalry with Rima Bhoi dates back to the Khelo India Asmita Women National Zonal League-2024-25 in Brahmapur, Odisha, where they finished 1-2 in the 59kg category.
Her KIUG performance on 28 November built momentum for this zonal clash, with the Indian Weightlifting Federation (IWLF) results portal tracking such national events. The league’s timing aligned perfectly, allowing seamless transitions for athletes like Rajyashree.
Rakhi’s Storied Career and Mentorship
Rakhi’s journey spans decades, from national dominance to international podiums, making her a beacon for aspiring lifters. As Rajyashree’s coach, she instils discipline honed from her own bronze at the All India Inter-University Championships and beyond.
Their participation together marks a rare mother-daughter feat, inspiring peers amid India’s weightlifting resurgence post-doping challenges.
This event reflects broader trends, with IWLF emphasising clean sport and youth development. Rakhi’s guidance has propelled Rajyashree from local meets to university glory, with previews hailing her as “like mum, like daughter.”
Such stories amplify the sport’s appeal in eastern India, where Kolkata venues host pivotal competitions.
Broader Impact on Indian Weightlifting
The ASMITA League contributes to India’s deepening talent pool, complementing events like KIUG and national championships.
With over a dozen medals distributed across categories, it signals robust participation from universities and states, aligning with Khelo India’s goal of 1,000 Arjuna Awardees by 2028. Officials view family involvements like the Halders’ as catalysts for sustained growth.
Media coverage from Sangbad Pratidin and MyKhel amplified the duo’s win, blending Bengali pride with national narratives.
As the league concludes on 30 November, eyes turn to nationals, where Rajyashree eyes further glory. This triumph boosts visibility for women’s sports, encouraging sponsorships and infrastructure.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
Rakhi and Rajyashree Halder’s synchronized golds exemplify perseverance, empathy in mentorship, and the harmony of family support, fostering kindness over cut-throat rivalry in sports.
These narratives promote peaceful coexistence across generations, urging investments in programmes that nurture talent while celebrating human connections for societal progress.
