Rajyashree and her mother, Rakhi Halder, are set to compete in the ASMITA Weightlifting League in Kolkata on November 28. This unique event will see them participating in different categories. Rakhi is a seasoned weightlifter, having won the Commonwealth Championships gold in 2019. Meanwhile, Rajyashree narrowly missed out on gold at the Khelo India University Games (KIUG) 2025, securing silver instead.
The mother-daughter duo's participation in the same league is a rare occurrence. Rajyashree, a second-year Bachelor of Arts student at Adamas University, has been weightlifting for six years. Despite often finishing outside the top three in major competitions, she remains determined to improve. Her recent silver medal loss to Rima Bhoi by just
two kilograms serves as motivation.
Weightlifting runs in Rajyashree's family. Her father, C Naveen Kumar, is a powerlifter, and she trains under her mother's guidance at home in Kolkata. Growing up with a decorated athlete like Rakhi has its challenges. Rajyashree admits that expectations weigh heavily on her mind before competitions.
"There is mental pressure of performance," she said. "When people find my identity, they will count my mother's achievements. I hope to live up to the expectations. " Despite this pressure, she remains focused on her goals and continues to strive for success.
The rivalry between Rajyashree and Rima Bhoi isn't new. Both athletes finished first and second respectively in the 59kg women's category at the Khelo India Asmita Women National Zonal League-2024-25 held in Brahmapur, Odisha. This ongoing competition pushes Rajyashree to enhance her skills further.
"This was my first Khelo India University Games," Rajyashree shared. "It feels good to get a silver. There is a reason for that; I have mostly finished fourth or fifth so far, so this silver is special. " Her previous achievement was a bronze medal at the All India Inter-University championship.
Upcoming Challenges
Despite concluding her campaign at KIUG recently, Rajyashree has little time to rest. She will compete again on Friday in the women's 58kg category at the ASMITA Weightlifting League. Her mother Rakhi will be cheering from the sidelines as she aims to build on her momentum from KIUG.
Later that day, roles will reverse as Rajyashree supports Rakhi during her competition in the women's 69kg weight division at ASMITA League. Rakhi hopes to add another medal to her impressive career while inspiring her daughter through her achievements.
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