Popy Hazarika is an accomplished Indian weightlifter in the under 59 kg category, holding numerous medals in national and international competitions. |
In her childhood village, she initially engaged in discus and javelin throw before transitioning to weightlifting training at a camp in 2013. |
Under the guidance of coach Duljit Boruah, she dedicated six hours daily to rigorous weightlifting practice with limited equipment availability. |
To support her family financially, Popy's mother worked as a school cook and in rice fields to make ends meet. |
Starting with a 35 kg weight, Popy swiftly progressed to lifting weights almost equal to her body mass, impressively winning a gold medal in the district meet in 2014. |
She joined the SAI Training Centre in Golaghat under coach Om Prakash Kalyani after being scouted for her talent. |
To manage expenses at the training center, Popy and her friend Dimpy Dutta shared items like balms, kits, and shoes while opting for cost-effective train travel. |
Acknowledged for her resilience, Popy excelled in senior-level competitions at the national level, accumulating numerous medals. |
She almost considered a career change to join the Assam Police in 2018 but was persuaded by friends and coaches to remain dedicated to weightlifting. |
Popy set national junior and senior records in snatch-type lifting in the 59 kg category during competitions in 2018 and 2020, respectively. |
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Popy's coach supported her by sending weightlifting equipment worth Rs 53,000 for consistent training. |
She achieved notable rankings in the 59 kg category at the 2021 World Weightlifting Championships and the 2022 Commonwealth Games. |
Upon securing a position in the Indian Railways in 2021, Popy celebrated with a village feast costing Rs 23,000. |
Meeting her idol Mirabai Chanu at the national camp was a significant moment, and she spoke highly of training alongside her role model. |
Popy Hazarika has a pet dog and holds a special fondness for dogs in general. |