Hillang Yajik has etched her name in the annals of Indian sports history by clinching a gold and a silver medal at the 15th South Asian Bodybuilding and Physique Sports Championship 2025, held in Thimphu, Bhutan, from June 11 to 15. Hailing from Arunachal Pradesh, Yajik became the first female physique sports athlete from her state to secure a gold medal on an international stage, a feat that resonates with pride for both her state and the nation.
The championship, organized by the Bhutan Bodybuilding Association and sanctioned by the World Bodybuilding and Physique Sports Federation (WBPF) and the Asian Bodybuilding and Physique Sports Federation (ABPF), saw fierce competition from athletes across South Asia. Yajik’s triumph is a testament to her dedication, discipline, and resilience, qualities that have propelled her to overcome challenges in a sport often dominated by men. Her victory not only highlights her personal grit but also underscores the growing prominence of women in bodybuilding in India.
Nabam Tuna, President of the Arunachal Bodybuilding Association, lauded Yajik’s achievement, stating, “Her success is a beacon of inspiration, showcasing India’s strength on the global stage.” This milestone is particularly significant for Arunachal Pradesh, a state often underrepresented in mainstream sports narratives. Yajik’s journey began in the hilly terrains of Arunachal, where access to advanced training facilities is limited. Yet, her determination to excel in physique sports—a discipline that demands intense physical and mental fortitude—has broken barriers and set a new benchmark for aspiring athletes.
The rise of women in bodybuilding in India is a story of empowerment. Athletes like Yajik are challenging stereotypes, proving that strength and femininity are not mutually exclusive. Her gold medal win is a clarion call to young women across the country to pursue their dreams relentlessly, regardless of societal expectations or logistical hurdles. The South Asian Bodybuilding Championship 2025 was more than a competition; it was a platform for Yajik to showcase India’s evolving sports culture, where diversity and determination are taking center stage.
Yajik’s achievement also shines a spotlight on the need for better infrastructure and support for niche sports like bodybuilding in India. While urban centers boast gyms and training facilities, rural areas like Arunachal often lack such resources. Her success could inspire policymakers and sports bodies to invest in grassroots programs, ensuring that talents like Hillang Yajik continue to emerge from every corner of the country.
As India celebrates this historic win, Yajik’s story serves as a reminder that greatness can come from the most unexpected places. Her journey from a small town in Arunachal to an international podium is a narrative of hope, hard work, and unyielding spirit. For aspiring athletes, particularly women in bodybuilding, Hillang Yajik is a name to remember—a trailblazer who has not only won medals but also won hearts across the nation.