Himanshi Tokas, a 20-year-old from Munirka in South Delhi, has risen to become the first Indian judoka, male or female, to top the International Judo Federation (IJF) junior world rankings in the women’s 63kg category. Her journey was far from easy, with initial resistance from family members and a serious eye injury threatening to halt her progress.
Supported steadfastly by her mother, Himanshi’s resilience saw her win a silver medal at the 2019 Sub-Junior Nationals, challenging entrenched perceptions of what was possible.
A fifth-place finish at the 2020 Khelo India Youth Games earned her a spot at the Sports Authority of India’s National Centre of Excellence in Bhopal, where under the mentorship of coach Yashpal Solanki and training camps in Japan, she sharpened her skills and competitive edge.
Landmark Victories in 2025
The year 2025 proved to be a breakthrough season for Himanshi. Strategically focusing on tournaments that maximized ranking points, she claimed gold medals at five major junior events: the Casablanca African Open (January), the Taipei Junior Asian Cup (July), and the Asian Junior Championships (September), among others. Her victory at the Asian Junior Championships was especially defining, as she defeated India’s Linthoi Chanambam in the semifinals and Uzbekistan’s Nigina Saparbova in the final.
These wins earned her 610 ranking points, placing her ahead of international competitors from countries traditionally dominant in judo, such as Italy and Brazil. Nine of her wins ended in ippon, the judo equivalent of a knockout, showcasing her technical superiority.
Himanshi Tokas’ training regimen includes critical exposure trips to judo hubs in Japan and Europe, where she encounters diverse fighting styles and higher competition intensity. These experiences help her adapt tactics dynamically, a skill she noted as lacking in many Indian players, who often stick to a single technique. She is also part of an emerging cluster of Indian judokas climbing global junior rankings, supported by improved grassroots initiatives and backing from institutions like the Reliance Foundation. This system aims to transform India into a consistent contender on the world judo stage.
Challenges on the Senior Circuit
While Himanshi dominates the junior ranks as World No. 1, breaking into the senior elite has proven more challenging. In 2025, she competed in several senior events, including the Paris and Tbilisi Grand Slams, as well as the Asian Senior Championships and World Championships, facing early exits.
Nevertheless, her senior world ranking of 61st, with 611 points, remains notable for an athlete still early in her career. Experts say this contrast highlights the steep standards at the senior level but also promises significant potential for growth as she gains experience.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
Himanshi Tokas’ ascent embodies the power of courage paired with institutional support to fuel sporting success. Her achievement uplifts not only her personal story but also signals a shift in Indian sports culture where unconventional choices and determination can carve new pathways.
At a time when India seeks broader representation in global sports beyond cricket and hockey, Himanshi’s rise is a beacon for young athletes, particularly women, from diverse backgrounds. To convert such junior brilliance into sustained senior success, India must bolster its grassroots programmes, enhance training infrastructure, and cultivate an inclusive sports ecosystem.
