Imphal: Manipur’s 22-year-old gymnast Ariha Pangambam scripted history at the 2026 Asian Aerobic Gymnastics Championships in Tagaytay City, Philippines, by scoring 19.100 to win India’s first-ever senior women’s individual gold medal, overcoming fourth-place finishes in 2022 and 2024.
Ariha Pangambam became the first Indian to win a gold medal in the senior women’s individual event at the Asian Aerobic Gymnastics Championships on August 7, 2026.
The 22-year-old topped the podium at the 2026 championships in Tagaytay City, Philippines, with a final score of 19.100. She scored 8.650 in artistry, 7.600 in execution and 2.850 in difficulty.
Ariha’s victory follows close fourth-place finishes at the Asian Championships in 2022 and 2024.
A multiple-time national champion, Ariha won gold medals at the National Games in 2023 and 2025.
Gymnastics Federation of India president Sudhir Mittal praised the achievement, saying, “A great achievement for us. Did very well. Kudos to her and her coach, Yumnam Ranjan Singh.”
Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh also congratulated her on social media, calling her achievement a source of national pride.
The Chief Minister wrote, “Heartiest congratulations to Ariha Pangambam on scripting history by becoming the first Indian to win an individual gold medal at the 2026 Senior Women’s Aerobic Gymnastics Asian Championships in Tagaytay City, Philippines.
“Your remarkable achievement is a moment of immense pride for Manipur and the entire nation. May you continue to inspire generations and bring many more laurels to India.”
He added, “Congratulations and best wishes for an even brighter future!”