Arjuna Awardee Bijay Kumar Satpathy Passes Away at 73, Leaves Behind a Legacy of Strength and Inspiration

Berhampur,  — India’s weightlifting community is mourning the loss of one of its most iconic figures, Bijay Kumar Satpathy, who passed away at the age of 73 due to age-related ailments.

A native of Somnath Nagar near Aska Road, Satpathy was a five-time National Champion between 1977 and 1983, representing both the Indian Navy and Indian Railways.

Satpathy’s international achievements include a silver medal at the 1982 Commonwealth Games in Brisbane, a bronze at the Asian Championship in Nagoya, and a gold at the 1981 Mini Commonwealth Games.

His technical brilliance and raw strength were evident in his record lifts—147 kg in clean and jerk and 110 kg in snatch—in the 59 kg and 56 kg categories.

In recognition of his contributions to Indian sports, Satpathy was conferred the prestigious Arjuna Award by President Gyani Jail Singh on August 29, 1982. His legacy continues to inspire generations of athletes, with tributes pouring in from across the country.

Officials, athletes, and fans alike remember him not just for his medals but for elevating Indian weightlifting to global prominence.