Hillang Yajik, from Arunachal Pradesh, wins gold and silver at South Asian Bodybuilding Championships 2025 in Bhutan. A historic moment inspiring women and athletes from Northeast India.
Hillang Yajik’s Golden Victory: A New Dawn for Women Bodybuilders from Northeast India
In an inspiring tale of resilience, passion, and triumph, Hillang Yajik, a 24-year-old athlete from the remote Kurung Kumey district of Arunachal Pradesh, has scripted history. She emerged victorious at the 15th South Asian Bodybuilding & Physique Sports Championships 2025, held in Thimphu, Bhutan, by clinching a gold medal in the Women’s Model Physique (up to 155 cm) category and a silver medal in another physique category.
This accomplishment makes her the first woman from Arunachal Pradesh to win a gold medal in bodybuilding at an international level — a historic milestone that has energized her state and the broader Northeastern region of India.
Shining at the South Asian Stage
The 15th South Asian Bodybuilding & Physique Sports Championships, held from June 11 to June 15, 2025, brought together elite athletes from across the region. Representing India, Hillang Yajik stood tall and proud, showcasing her impeccable physique, confidence, and discipline.
She bagged:
- 🥇 Gold Medal in the Women’s Model Physique (up to 155 cm) category
- 🥈 Silver Medal in another physique category
Her performance did not just win medals; it won hearts. In a sport often dominated by those with access to premier facilities, Hillang’s win stands as proof that determination can triumph over limited resources.
From Kurung Kumey to Bhutan: A Journey of Grit
Hillang hails from Kurung Kumey, one of the most remote and underdeveloped districts in Arunachal Pradesh. With scarce sports infrastructure, few training centers, and minimal exposure, it’s easy to see why her journey is being hailed as extraordinary.
Hillang’s interest in bodybuilding blossomed during her college years. Despite academic pressures, she committed herself to rigorous physical training. Her talent was recognized when she qualified for national-level trials under the Indian Body Builders Federation (IBBF) in association with the Bodybuilding Association of Kerala in Ernakulam.
A Steady Climb: Past Achievements
Hillang Yajik’s 2025 triumph was not sudden. She has been steadily building her reputation:
| Event | Medal | Year | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| 15th South Asian Bodybuilding and Physique Sports Championships | Gold | 2025 | Thimphu, Bhutan |
| 15th South Asian Bodybuilding and Physique Sports Championships | Silver | 2025 | Thimphu, Bhutan |
| 13th Federation Cup | Silver | 2024 | Goa, India |
| 56th Asian Bodybuilding & Physique Sports Championships | – | 2024 | – |
| 15th WBPF World Championships | – | 2024 | – |
These consistent appearances and performances at major national and international competitions reflect her rising stature in the world of physique sports.
Breaking Barriers and Making History
Hillang’s gold medal is a historic achievement — not just for her but for all women and athletes from Northeast India. Her journey challenges entrenched gender stereotypes, particularly in a field where female representation has been minimal.
As the first woman from Arunachal Pradesh to achieve this honor at an international bodybuilding event, she has become a symbol of courage, determination, and breaking boundaries.
Recognition and Praise
Her success did not go unnoticed. Political leaders, sports federations, and the public alike celebrated her accomplishment:
- Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu called her a “trailblazer” and praised her courage and commitment.
- Union Minister Kiren Rijiju hailed her for “creating history” and emphasized the need to support more talents from the region.
- Rajya Sabha MP Satnam Singh Sandhu also applauded her global representation of India.
- Nabam Tuna, President of the Arunachal Bodybuilding Association, highlighted the magnitude of her achievement for the state’s sports ecosystem.
Such acknowledgments show the growing importance of physique sports in India and the emerging talents from non-traditional sporting hubs.
Inspiring the Northeast and Beyond
What makes Hillang’s story even more significant is its impact on young women across Northeast India. In regions where sports often take a backseat to academic aspirations and infrastructure is limited, her story stands as a shining example of what is possible.
The Logical Indian, among other media outlets, covered her victory with emotional resonance, calling her a “beacon of hope”. Her journey is inspiring a wave of interest in bodybuilding, especially among women who may have never considered this sport a viable path before.
A Call for Better Infrastructure and Support
Hillang’s rise also points to a larger issue: the lack of adequate sports infrastructure in Northeast India. With better access to training, funding, and exposure, how many more Hillangs could emerge?
Her victory is a wake-up call for policymakers and sports authorities to:
- Improve training facilities in remote regions
- Provide financial support and scholarships to emerging athletes
- Promote awareness and opportunities for women in unconventional sports
Hillang’s triumph should not be a rare story but one of many — with proper investment, India can nurture world-class talent from every corner of the nation.
Final Thoughts: The Power of One Woman’s Determination
Hillang Yajik’s name will forever be etched in the sports history of Arunachal Pradesh and India. Her gold and silver medals are not just physical awards but symbols of hope, perseverance, and representation.
She reminds us that heroes often rise from the least expected places, and that with dedication, hard work, and support, even the most remote voices can roar on the global stage.
As India continues its journey toward becoming a global sports powerhouse, the story of Hillang Yajik serves as a powerful blueprint — proving that talent knows no geography, gender, or limitation.