Manipur’s sporting legacy received another proud addition as Takhellamabam Inunganbi, one of India’s promising judokas, clinched the gold medal at the Amman Asian Open Judo Championship 2025 held in Jordan.
The tournament, which drew competitors from across Asia and beyond, is considered a key event in the international judo calendar, offering valuable ranking points for upcoming world championships and Olympic qualification.
A Breakthrough Victory
Inunganbi, hailing from Manipur — a state that has consistently produced world-class athletes — showcased both technical mastery and mental resilience throughout the competition. Competing in her weight category, she outperformed top-ranked judokas from Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, and host nation Jordan before sealing the gold in a gripping final bout.
Her victory adds to Manipur’s long list of sporting achievements, further cementing the state’s reputation as a powerhouse of martial and combat sports.
Words of Inspiration
Following her win, Inunganbi expressed gratitude to her coaches, teammates, and family who stood by her during years of rigorous training. “This gold medal is not just mine; it belongs to Manipur and India. Every throw, every hold I executed on the mat was powered by the dreams of countless youngsters back home. I hope this inspires more Manipuri girls to take up judo and other sports with confidence,” she said.
Recognition and National Pride
Sports enthusiasts and officials across India hailed her triumph. The Judo Federation of India lauded Inunganbi’s achievement, noting that her success reflects both the raw talent and the disciplined training culture nurtured in the Northeast.
In Manipur, congratulatory messages poured in on social media, with many highlighting that her victory comes at a time when stories of resilience and unity are especially meaningful for the state.
Looking Ahead
The Amman win boosts Inunganbi’s international ranking and strengthens her prospects for future global competitions, including the Asian Games and Olympic qualifiers. With continued support, she is poised to become a mainstay of India’s judo contingent in the coming years.
For Manipur, a land already celebrated for producing Olympic medalists like Mary Kom, Mirabai Chanu, and others, Inunganbi’s golden performance serves as yet another reminder of the region’s unparalleled contribution to Indian sports.