Ariha Pangambam created history by becoming the first-ever Indian to win a senior individual women’s gold in the Asian Aerobic Gymnastics Championships.
The 22-year-old from Manipur had a final score of a staggering 19.10, taking 8.65 in artistry, 7.60 in execution and 2.85 in difficulty. Previously, Ariha had won gold medals in the National Games in 2023 and 2025. She is also a multiple-time national champion and represented India in the 10th International Championship. In the Asian Championship in 2022 and 2024, she marginally missed a medal after finishing fourth.
According to her LinkedIn profile, Ariha is currently pursuing sports leadership studies at AISTS India.
For Ariha, the historic Asian gold is the latest milestone in a journey that began in Manipur. Since then, years of hard work, training and competitions have helped her grow into one of India’s leading aerobic gymnasts.
Speaking about her journey, Ariha wrote on LinkedIn, “Ever since I first stepped onto the gymnastics floor as a little girl from Manipur, I knew this sport would become more than just a discipline – it would become my life’s language. The music, the movement, the precision – every routine was a story waiting to be told through strength, rhythm, and emotion.
“My journey in Aerobic Gymnastics began with simple dreams and endless hours of training under the guidance of my coach, Yumnam Ranjan Singh. Over the years, those early dreams grew into a lifelong pursuit of excellence. From local competitions to representing India on the world stage, every experience has taught me that true success isn’t just about medals – it’s about resilience, teamwork, and the courage to keep going when the lights go dim.
“Today, I am proud to have earned multiple National Gold Medals, and to have represented India at international platforms like the FIG Aerobic Gymnastics World Championships, the Suzuki World Cup (Japan), and the Asian Championships. Each of these moments has shaped not only my athletic journey but also my identity as a sportsperson who believes in growth beyond boundaries.
“Currently, as I pursue my Post-Graduate Certificate at AISTS India, I’m exploring how to bridge the worlds of athletic performance and sports management – empowering the next generation of athletes with better opportunities, structure, and mentorship.
“For me, gymnastics is more than a sport – it’s a way of life that teaches grace under pressure, beauty in movement, and strength in humility. My goal is to continue representing my country with pride and to inspire young athletes to chase their dreams with discipline, belief, and heart.
Meanwhile, reacting to Ariha’s achievement, Gymnastic Federation of India President Sudhir Mittal said, “A great achievement for us. Did very well. Kudos to her and her coach.”