Wins Silver in 270kg weightlifting category
Raipur : For many years, Shiekh Waheeda has been more than just a spectator of her husband’s achievements, she has been his constant motivator, pillar of strength, and source of inspiration. Her husband, Devarkonda Prem Sagar, clinched a silver medal in the 270kg weightlifting category on Saturday, adding another prestigious accolade to his decorated national-level career.
Hailing from Bapatla district, Andhra Pradesh, Sagar has consistently represented his state in weightlifting competitions across the country.
In 2024, he had won bronze at the Khelo India Games in Chennai, and his performance earned him sponsorship from a local MP in Hyderabad, helping him access better training facilities and participate at the national level.
Recently, his consistent efforts were recognized with a sports quota job in Indian Railways, providing him financial stability and support for his sporting ambitions.
Speaking to Kashmir Horizon, Waheeda says it is love for him that keeps me motivating him always. I want with him each and every game, be it Kolkata, New Delhi, Vishakhapatnam or any other place in India, she said.
“Ours was a love marriage. After completing my Bachelor’s, we got married in 2020 despite initial family resistance to our inter-religion marriage. Behind every athlete, there is someone who believes in them. I may not lift the weights myself, but my encouragement and support are part of his strength,” she said.
Recalling his countless hours of training, Waheeda has witnessed.
“He is a hard worker. I have never seen him sitting idle; he is always practicing, always pushing himself. Every medal, every achievement is the result of his dedication and discipline. My dream has always been to see him represent India at the Olympics, and I will continue supporting him in every way I can,” she added.
While cheering for husban’s success, Waheeda says it is good see more children from tribal community are coming forward. It is not just about winning medals, it is about believing in yourself and persevering despite challenges.”
“Every competition is a new challenge, and I will always be there cheering him on. His dedication motivates not just me but everyone around him,” Waheeda said.
Sagar’s father, who is bank employee says Waheeda’s role has been both emotional and practical. After marriage, she has ensured that Sagar maintains a strict routine, balanced diet, and mental focus, which are essential for athletes competing at national and international levels,” he said.
He further said that seeing both together and motivating each other makes our family special. Love and belief make it possible. It makes our community proud fills me with immense happiness and hope, Father said.
Sagar himself attributes much of his success to the unwavering support from his family. “Without my wife’s encouragement, I could not have reached this stage. Her belief gives me the confidence to train harder, face challenges, and dream bigger,” he said.
Meanwhile in same competition, in 88kg weightlifting category, gold went to Ruba Tadu of Arunachal Pradesh with 274kg, silver to Devarkonda Prem Sagar of Andhra Pradesh with 270kg, and bronze to Soram Hitlar Sagar of Arunachal Pradesh with 262kg.”
