Reality of female weightlifters in India: A comprehensive social and cultural analysis

Abstract

This in-depth research paper presents a multifaceted examination of the challenges, perceptions, and lived realities of female weightlifters in contemporary India. While womens participation in sports has seen gradual growth, strength-based disciplines like weightlifting continue to confront deeply entrenched gender biases and structural inequalities. Employing a mixed-methods approach combining qualitative interviews, ethnographic observations, and critical discourse analysis of media and policy documents, this study reveals the complex interplay of cultural, institutional, and personal factors shaping these athletes journeys. The research highlights how female weightlifters negotiate societal expectations, institutional barriers, and personal identity formation while pursuing excellence in a traditionally masculine domain. Beyond identifying challenges, the paper proposes a comprehensive framework for systemic reform, addressing gaps in policy, media representation, and cultural attitudes toward women in strength sports.