Gold Medal Glory: Sharmila Dhanak’s Shot Put Victory in Glasgow

Glasgow’s Commonwealth Games arena witnessed a breakthrough on July 28 when Sharmila Dhanak threw 9.81 metres to win gold in the women's Shot Put F57 event. The performance marked India’s inaugural para‑gold at the Games and concluded a 20‑year wait for a medal in this category.

Alongside Shilpa Shaila’s bronze, the Indian team celebrated a double‑podium finish that will be recorded in the nation’s sporting annals.

In a post‑event interview, Dhanak dedicated the triumph to her blind mother, noting, “Her unwavering support has been my strength. This gold is a tribute to her perseverance.”

She highlighted the broader impact of the win, stating that it signals a new era for Indian para‑athletics and will encourage aspiring athletes to aim for international success.

Looking forward, Dhanak outlined her ambition to compete at the next Olympic Games, promising rigorous preparation and a continued focus on representing India on the world stage.