Imphal: Manipur gymnast Ariha Pangambam has created history by becoming the first Indian to win a gold medal in the senior women’s individual event at the Aerobic Gymnastics Asian Championships. Her landmark achievement came at the 2026 Senior Women’s Aerobic Gymnastics Asian Championships in Tagaytay City, Philippines.
22 YEAR OLD CREATES HISTORY FOR INDIAN AEROBIC GYMNASTICS! 🤯🔥
— The Khel India (@TheKhelIndia) August 7, 2026
Manipur’s Ariha Pangambam becomes the first-ever Indian to win Gold in the Senior Women’s Individual event at the Asian Aerobic Gymnastics Championships 🏅
WOOOAH, WELL DONE GIRL!!!! 🇮🇳❤️ pic.twitter.com/WtHKG24d6R
Ariha produced a strong performance in the final to finish at the top of the continental field with a score of 19.100 points. Her routine received 8.650 points for artistry, 7.600 for execution and 2.850 for difficulty, helping her secure the historic title.
The achievement marks India’s maiden gold medal in the senior women’s individual category at the Aerobic Gymnastics Asian Championships. It is also a major milestone for Manipur, which has continued to produce athletes who have made their mark at national and international competitions.
Ariha’s success received praise from the Gymnastics Federation of India (GFI). GFI president Sudhir Mital congratulated the gymnast and her coach, describing the performance as a major achievement for Indian gymnastics.
The historic victory also drew a congratulatory message from Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh. He praised Ariha for becoming the first Indian to claim an individual gold medal at the 2026 Senior Women’s Aerobic Gymnastics Asian Championships.
The Chief Minister described the achievement as a moment of immense pride for Manipur and the country. He expressed hope that Ariha’s success would inspire young athletes and encourage a new generation to take up gymnastics and pursue excellence at international competitions.
Ariha’s gold is particularly significant for Indian aerobic gymnastics, a discipline that has received less attention compared with some other Olympic and competitive sports. Her performance on the Asian stage could provide greater visibility to the sport and motivate athletes, coaches and sporting organisations to invest further in training and development.
With her historic victory in the Philippines, Ariha Pangambam has now secured a special place in Indian gymnastics history. Her achievement is not only a personal triumph but also an important moment for Manipur and Indian sport as a whole.