Cardiff 1958 was a historic year for the Indian athletes as the country achieved its first gold medal after some hectic years. India's legendary sprinter, Milkha Singh became the first Indian to win a gold medal in the Commonwealth Games after clinching the top spot in the men's 440-yard event. In the same edition, heavyweight wrestler Lila Ram earned another gold for India in the men's 100kg freestyle category.
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Before 1958, India struggled to take a position at the Commonwealth Games. The first few editions, when the game was known as the British Empire's Games, was very challenging for India. Before Milkha's win, India had earned just one bronze medal in three appearances.
What makes the Milkha even more impressive is India were not in their best position, which it is today at the Commonwealth Games. Though the competition was very tough, Milkha made it through the heats, quarter-finals, and semifinals to become one of the six runners in the 440 yards final at Cardiff 1958. Then the Flying Sikh became the first Indian to win a gold medal in Commonwealth Games.
Milkha Singh received a grand welcome on his return to India and then Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru even declared the next day a public holiday on the sprinter's request. With the win, Milkha has become a sporting icon in India. He started a trend that has continued till today.
Earlier that year, Milkha had broken the national records in 200m and 400m at the National Games in Cuttack. He also won two golds at the 1958 Asian Games. Besides, he represented India in the 1956 Summer Olympics in Melbourne, 1960 Summer Olympics in Rome, and 1964 Summer Olympics in Tokyo. He had achieved India's fourth-highest civilian honor, Padma Shri in recognition of his sporting achievements.