Gold-Medallist Powerlifter Yashtika Acharya Dies After 270-Kg Barbell Falls On Her Neck: Shocking Video Inside

Yashtika Acharya, a 17-year-old powerlifter and gold medallist, tragically died in Rajasthan's Bikaner after a 270-kg rod fell on her neck during practice. Watch the video of the incident below.

Gold-Medallist Powerlifter Yashtika Acharya Dies After 270-Kg Barbell Falls On Her Neck: Shocking Video Inside

Gold Medalist Death News: In a tragic incident, Yashtika Acharya- a 17-year-old gold-medallist powerlifter, died during training in Rajasthan's Bikaner gym after a 270-kg barbell slipped and fell on her neck. According to initial reports, the accident occurred on Tuesday during a training session under the supervision of her coach. As Yashtika attempted to lift the massive weight, she lost control, and the barbell rod came crashing down, breaking her neck (causing fatal injuries). Her trainer also suffered minor injuries while trying to assist her.

The shocking incident was captured on the CCTV camera which has gone viral on social media. Check the video HERE:

Disturbing visuals Powerlifter Yashtika Acharya (17 years old) d!ed in the gym While lifting 270 kg weight on Squaty, the rod fell on her neck, Bikaner Rajasthan pic.twitter.com/qqKpRDSosf Ghar Ke Kalesh (@gharkekalesh) February 19, 2025

Yashtika bagged a gold medallist at the National Bench Press Championship in Goa last year, in the Sub-Junior 84kg and above category.

What Happens When Heavy Weights Fall on the Neck?

In the above video, one can see the dangers that one may face while weightlifting at the gym. "Gym accidents that involve heavy weights (especially those whose these fall on the neck), can lead to serious, sometimes life-threatening injuries. The neck, or cervical spine, is one of the most delicate bones that safeguards the nerves, blood vessels, and the spinal cord. When this area gets subjected to sudden, forceful impact, it can suffer from a range of injuries, from mild muscle strain to severe spinal cord damage," said Dr Abhijeet Chouwdhury, Apollo Kolkata. He further explained what exactly happens to the neck when such a mishap happens while gymming.

When a heavy object falls on the neck (during a training session), the initial concern is the force exerted on the cervical spine. This fall can lead to some serious health complications, such as:

1. Muscle Strain and Sprain: The neck muscles and ligaments may stretch or tear -- this can lead to immense pain and also restrict one's movement.
2. Fractures: Another effect of such a mishap can be a serious fracture of the neck bone or the spine. Such fractures can turn life-threatening as they damage the spinal cord if not treated promptly.
3. Spinal Cord Injury: Damage to the spinal cord may result in partial or complete paralysis below the injury site. Symptoms can include numbness, loss of motor control, and breathing difficulties.
4. Tracheal or Esophageal Injury: The trachea (windpipe) or esophagus (food pipe) may also be damaged, leading to breathing or swallowing difficulties.
5. Vascular Injury: The neck contains major arteries like the carotid arteries and jugular veins. Trauma can cause life-threatening bleeding or stroke if these vessels are damaged.

How To Prevent Gym Accidents While Weightlifting?

To prevent such injuries, especially in gym or industrial settings:

1. Always use proper lifting techniques.
2. Wear appropriate safety gear.
3. Ensure weights and equipment are secured properly.
4. Never lift weights without a spotter in the gym.

As the community mourns her loss, there is a collective call to action to prioritize athlete safety and prevent such incidents in the future.