Andhra girl lifts gold at Commonwealth Games

Children grow observing, imitating and emulating parents, they say. Juhita Guna is one perfect proof for this belief. A 14-year-old girl from Rajamahendravaram, Juhita Guna, won a gold medal in the 69 kg category at the Commonwealth Games held in Ahmedabad last month, earning recognition as a rising weightlifter.

- KV SAILENDRA @ Rajamahendravaram

Children grow observing, imitating and emulating parents, they say. Juhita Guna is one perfect proof for this belief. A 14-year-old girl from Rajamahendravaram, Juhita Guna, won a gold medal in the 69 kg category at the Commonwealth Games held in Ahmedabad last month, earning recognition as a rising weightlifter. As many sports people from 29 countries took part in the prestigious games festival.

As the daughter of weightlifter parents, Juhita's interest in weightlifting was evident from a young age. Without any formal training, she lifted a 25 kg rice bag when she was in Class VI. Her parents were initially surprised but quickly realized her interest in the sport. Her mother, Parvati, said she first noticed Juhita's interest in weightlifting when she casually brought a 25 kg rice bag from the hall into the kitchen. "We felt that she would shine in the sport," Parvati added.