Sairaj Pardeshi grew up helping his father pick through scrap metal to keep the household afloat. Last week, at the Commonwealth Youth and Junior Weightlifting Championships, he lifted far more — a gold medal for India, and the weight of a family’s dream.
From Scrap Yards to the Sports Arena
Born in Pune, Maharashtra, Pardeshi’s childhood was defined by scarcity. His father’s scrap-dealing business demanded long hours, and the young boy often joined him after school, hauling and sorting discarded metal. The work was grueling, but it built resilience — a quality that would later serve him well in an entirely different arena.
Discovering Strength
Pardeshi’s introduction to weightlifting came almost by chance. What began as an exercise in strength training quickly turned into an obsession. Coaches noticed his natural power, but more importantly, his discipline. With limited resources and borrowed equipment, Pardeshi trained relentlessly, often against odds that would have discouraged others.
A Historic Lift
At just 18, Pardeshi earned a spot on India’s squad for the Commonwealth Youth and Junior Weightlifting Championships. Competing against seasoned international athletes, he executed his lifts with precision, securing the gold medal. The victory was not only personal but also national — a reminder of India’s growing strength in sports long overshadowed by cricket.
Beyond the Podium
For Pardeshi’s family, the medal represents more than athletic glory. It is proof that perseverance can change the trajectory of a life. For India, it signals the arrival of a new generation of weightlifters ready to compete on the world stage.
Pardeshi himself has set his sights higher: the Asian Games, the World Championships, and ultimately, the Olympics. His story, like his lift, is heavy with meaning — that greatness can rise from the most modest of beginnings.
