Bronze Breakthrough: Inunganbi Ends India’s 13-Year Judo Drought At Asian Championships

India’s First Asian Judo Medal In 13 Years

Takhellambam Inunganbi, a 27-year-old judoka from Manipur, scripted history by clinching bronze at the Asian Judo Championships 2026. She defeated Mongolia’s Lkhagvadulam Sarantsetseg by ippon in the bronze medal bout, securing India’s long-awaited return to the podium at the continental event.

Inunganbi’s triumph in Ordos City brought immense pride to Indian judo. Her medal is India’s first at the Asian Championships in over a decade, reviving hopes for the sport’s growth and recognition. The last medal was won by Angom Anita Chanu in Bangkok in 2013.

Road To The Medal

Inunganbi entered the quarterfinals directly but lost to Uzbekistan’s Shirinjon Yuldoshova, who went on to win silver. Through the repechage, she defeated Kyrgyzstan’s Alina Moldokulova to earn a shot at bronze. In the decisive bout, she dominated Sarantsetseg of Mongolia, sealing her place in Indian judo history.

Symbolism And Legacy

The medal was not just about breaking a drought—it symbolized resilience. Inunganbi proudly donned the Indian team blazer, a gesture reflecting years of perseverance and the struggle for recognition in a sport often overshadowed by others in India. Her success is expected to inspire a new generation of judokas.

Strategic Outlook

India fielded 18 judokas at the 2026 Championships, with Paris 2024 Olympian Tulika Maan also competing in the +78kg category. Analysts believe Inunganbi’s medal could catalyze greater investment in judo, improve grassroots training, and enhance India’s competitiveness in global events.

Key Highlights

• Takhellambam Inunganbi wins bronze in women’s -70kg at Asian Judo Championships 2026
• India’s first continental judo medal in 13 years
• Defeated Mongolia’s Lkhagvadulam Sarantsetseg by ippon in bronze medal bout
• Last medal was Angom Anita Chanu’s bronze in 2013
• Victory symbolizes resilience and renewed hope for Indian judo

Sources: Sportstar, Olympics.comOlympics, The Indian Express