From Aizawl to Birmingham CWG: Jeremy Lalrinnunga never had it easy

It is said that parents should not force their dreams on their children. But what if the parents merely ask their children to consider the dreams they had while growing up and let the children chart their own course?

Heading into the Commonwealth Games, India was confident of Gold, if not a medal, from a few athletes: Manipur’s Mirabai Chanu being one of them. And true to the champion she is, Chanu delivered Gold. Apart from those who follow Indian weightlifters closely, few gave a chance to Mizoram’s Jeremy Lalrinnunga. He had form and pedigree coming in, but few expected this 19-year-old to blow away the competition. And this, while struggling with back and knee injuries. After every lift, Jeremy would fall, almost scream in pain, and then force a smile on his face, thanking everyone in the audience. But he did not give up. 

This may have shocked the world, but what are the weights when compared to a lifetime of responsibilities and abject poverty at times?