Powerlifting Highlights From the Inaugural World Powerlifting Asia Championships

The inaugural World Powerlifting Asia Championships in Kathmandu marked a defining moment for the sport across the continent. For the first time, lifters from multiple Asian nations came together under the World Powerlifting banner, producing record-breaking performances and drawing enthusiastic crowds both in the arena and online. With over 130 athletes participating, the event showcased the rapid growth and rising competitiveness of powerlifting in the region.

A Breakthrough Moment for Nepal

As the host nation, Nepal delivered an unforgettable performance on the international stage. The standout of the meet was Bikin Joshi, who made history by benching 169 kg to set a new world record in his category. His incredible 640 kg total earned him the prestigious title of Best Lifter, firmly establishing Nepal as a rising force in global powerlifting.

Another Nepali athlete, Dr. Rajib Shrestha, impressed audiences and competitors alike with a remarkable 697 kg total in the 85 kg class. His performance reflected not only individual excellence but also the growing strength of Nepal’s national powerlifting program.

Sri Lanka’s Grit and Determination

Sri Lanka’s veteran lifter Ransilu Jayathilake turned in one of the most inspiring performances of the championship. Despite competing with a shoulder injury, he excelled in both the Squat and Deadlift events, reminding everyone why he remains one of South Asia’s most respected powerlifters. His resilience and technique were highlights of the competition and earned widespread admiration.

Women’s Division: Dominance From Nepal and India

The women’s categories brought some of the most exciting battles of the event. Lifters from Nepal and India consistently topped the leaderboard, showcasing exceptional strength and discipline. India’s Chinmayee Das emerged as Best Lifter in the women’s division, delivering a standout performance that underscored her rising international profile.

A Milestone for Asian Powerlifting

Beyond the medals and records, the Kathmandu Championships symbolized the momentum building around powerlifting in Asia. With strong organization led by meet director Sukadev Karki and the dedicated Nepal team, the event demonstrated the region’s ability to host world-class competitions. The enthusiastic spectator turnout—both in-person and online—showed that the sport is capturing new attention across the continent.

For many lifters, especially those from countries with developing powerlifting programs, this championship provided an invaluable opportunity to compete on a major stage. The success of the event is expected to encourage more nations to participate in future competitions and invest in their strength sports infrastructure.

Looking Ahead to Colombo

Excitement is already building for the next major event on the calendar: the World Powerlifting Championships in Colombo, Sri Lanka, taking place from November 27–30. With Asian lifters delivering standout performances in Kathmandu, expectations are higher than ever for their showing on the world stage.

The Kathmandu Championships have set a powerful precedent—one that promises greater visibility, stronger competition, and new heroes for powerlifting fans across Asia.

The inaugural World Powerlifting Asia Championships in Kathmandu showcased the immense talent and determination of lifters from across the continent, with Nepal’s Bikin Joshi breaking records and solidifying his country’s place as a rising force in the sport. Sri Lanka’s Ransilu Jayathilake demonstrated sheer grit and resilience despite competing with an injury, earning the respect of fans and fellow competitors. The women’s division saw fierce competition between athletes from Nepal and India, with India’s Chinmayee Das emerging as a standout performer. The success of the event not only highlighted the rapid growth of powerlifting in Asia but also set the stage for future competitions, such as the upcoming World Powerlifting Championships in Colombo, where Asian lifters are expected to continue their impressive performances and inspire a new generation of powerlifting enthusiasts.

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