74-Year-Old Bhadrachalam Powerlifter DV Shankar Rao Wins Silver at World Masters Championship

DV Shankar Rao, a 74-year-old retired State Bank of India (SBI) officer from Bhadrachalam, Telangana, has brought pride to India with another impressive performance on the international powerlifting stage. Competing in the 74kg Masters-4 category, he won a silver medal at the World Masters Equipped Powerlifting Championships held in Reno, USA, on October 22. Despite having undergone coronary bypass surgery, Shankar Rao continues to compete at the highest level, demonstrating remarkable determination and dedication to the sport. His latest achievement comes just a week after he secured a bronze medal at the World Masters Classic Powerlifting Championships, held at the same venue on October 15.

Shankar Rao’s success in two different events within a week has earned him widespread appreciation. With around 10 medals to his credit so far, he has become an inspiration to people across generations. His journey highlights how commitment, discipline and perseverance can help athletes continue pursuing their goals even in their later years. Shankar Rao’s achievements also encourage older adults to remain active and maintain a healthy lifestyle, proving that age need not be a barrier to sporting ambition.