India's Roshibina Devi Naorem Claims Silver in Women's 60kg Wushu at 2023 Asian Games

Hangzhou, China - September 28, 2023: In a thrilling showdown at the 2023 Asian Games, Indian wushu sensation Roshibina Devi Naorem secured the silver medal in the women's 60kg wushu (Sanda) category.

In the much-anticipated final match, Roshibina faced a formidable opponent in Xiaowei Wu, the home favorite. Despite displaying remarkable skill and determination, Roshibina narrowly missed the gold medal, with both rounds ending in favor of her Chinese counterpart with a unanimous 5-0 score.

This achievement firmly establishes Roshibina Devi Naorem as a trailblazer in Indian wushu, as she becomes only the second Indian, male or female, to reach a wushu final at the Asian Games. The first Indian to achieve this remarkable feat was Wangkhem Sandhyarani Devi, who secured the silver medal in the same 60kg category at the 2010 Asian Games.

Notably, India has yet to claim a gold medal in wushu at the Asian Games, making Roshibina's silver medal all the more significant.

Roshibina's journey to this historic moment has been fueled by unwavering dedication and support. She expressed her determination to win gold for three fellow Wushu players from Arunachal Pradesh who were denied visas by the Chinese government. "I want to win gold for my three friends who could not make it here," Roshibina said. "We train together, and it is important to have someone you are comfortable with."

Roshibina Devi Naorem's story is one of inspiration and passion. Hailing from Kwaksiphai Mayai Leikai in Bishnpur District, Manipur, she initially gained recognition by securing a bronze medal at the 2016 World Junior Wushu Championships. Her ascendancy continued as she clinched gold at the Championships held in Gumi, South Korea, a year later.

Behind her success is the unwavering support of her father, a farmer, who encouraged her to pursue her passion for wushu. In a recent interview, Roshibina revealed that her initial interest was in boxing, but her dedication to wushu prevailed.

Wushu, a collection of Chinese martial arts, encompasses two primary disciplines: Taolu, involving choreographed routines, and Sanda, which involves full-contact combat. Roshibina's excellence shone through in Sanda (60 kg), where she claimed the coveted gold medal.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi also acknowledged Roshibina's remarkable achievement, stating, "Our dedicated and talented Roshibina Devi Naorem has won a Silver Medal in Wushu, Women’s Sanda 60 kg. She has showcased extraordinary talent and relentless pursuit of excellence. Her discipline and determination are also admirable. Congratulations to her."

Roshibina Devi Naorem's journey continues to inspire aspiring athletes across India, as she adds another silver lining to the nation's sporting glory. Her unwavering dedication and historic achievements are a testament to the indomitable spirit of Indian athletes on the global stage.