Grishma Thorat's Success

Thane weightlifter Grishma Thorat secured a silver medal in the women’s 76kg category at the Khelo India Youth Games 2023, marking a significant achievement in her career. However, her journey to this success was marked by a tragic personal loss that deeply impacted her.

Over the past two years, Grishma’s life has been overshadowed by the memories of her late father, who succumbed to post-Covid infections just four days after she returned from the junior nationals in Bhubaneswar in 2022, where she finished in sixth place.

The weightlifter, currently a 10th standard student, revealed the emotional turmoil she faced during this challenging period. Her father, the sole breadwinner working in a chocolate factory, passed away, leaving the family in financial strain. Grishma’s mother, now the family’s primary provider, works as a caretaker in an Anganwadi center in Thane and supports the education of Grishma and her twin sister.

Reflecting on the tough times, Grishma expressed how the memories of her father haunted her during training and everyday activities, making it difficult to focus. Despite the financial hardships, her mother managed to navigate the challenges with limited income.

Grishma credited her coach, Madhuri Sinhasane, for playing a crucial role in helping her overcome the distress and regain focus on her athletic career. Her recent bronze medal at the junior nationals in Itanagar, Arunachal Pradesh, showcased her resilience and determination.

Motivated by her recent podium finishes, Grishma now sets her sights on securing a top position at the upcoming Under-17 School Games in Patna in March. Her story reflects not only athletic prowess but also resilience in the face of personal adversity, making her journey to success all the more inspiring.

_{Repurposed article originally published in India.com}