In the last century, India did not have a major success in any sport other than hockey at the Olympics. However, the 21st century began with a historic medal. India gets first woman Olympic medalist. The feat was performed by weightlifter Karnam Malleswari. Coming from a small village in Andra Pradesh, the player was India's only medalist in the 2000 Games. Malleswari's medal opened up the way for women to pursue a career in women's sports in India and assured that india's women can achieve success in any sport when given an opportunity.

Born in Wusavanipeta, a small village in Andhra Pradesh, Malleswari's family never thought that the girl would one day bring glory not only to her but for the India. At the age of just 12, Malleswari started training in weightlifting under the patronage of coach Nallamshetty Appana. Karnam Malleswari's talent was recognised by 'Arjuna Award' winning head national coach Shyamlal Salwan when she accompanied her elder sister to Bangalore camp in 1990. It was from here that her love for the game arose and she was completely engrossed in the game. Her struggle paid off and in just one year she came into the indian team.

In 1993, Malleswari finished third in the World Championships and then finished third again in 1996, with a series of world titles in the 54kg division in 1994 and 1995. She also received two silvers at the Asian Games in 1994 and 1998, and was awarded the Padma Shri in 1999.

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