Arunachal Pradesh’s Hillang Yajik has carved a historic milestone by winning the Gold Medal in the Women’s Model Physique (up to 155 cm) category at the 15th South Asian Bodybuilding and Physique Sports Championships 2025 held in Thimphu, Bhutan. She also claimed a Silver Medal in a complementary category, marking her as the first female physique sports gold medalist from Arunachal Pradesh at an international event.
Her achievement has been widely praised across India; Chief Minister Pema Khandu, Union Sports Minister Kiren Rijiju, and other officials have lauded her dedication and success, calling it an inspiration for young athletes, especially women, from the Northeast and beyond.
A Breakthrough for Women in Bodybuilding
Hilang Yajik’s victory is a landmark moment, symbolising the rise of Indian women in the bodybuilding and physique sports arena-a field where women’s representation is still developing. Competing against talented athletes from South Asia, Yajik’s exemplary performance earned her both Gold and Silver medals, underscoring her discipline, perseverance, and skill.
Pema Khandu congratulated her on social media, hailing her as “a trailblazer who inspires every aspiring sportsperson in Arunachal and India.” Union Minister Kiren Rijiju extended his felicitation, dubbing her achievement “a proud moment for Indian sports.” Meanwhile, Nabam Tuna, President of the Arunachal Bodybuilding Association, expressed that her success not only raises the profile of the state but also highlights India’s growing prominence in physique sports.
The Journey from Arunachal to International Glory
Hillang Yajik’s path to international recognition has been one of steadfast dedication and hard work. Growing up in Arunachal Pradesh, she navigated challenges common to many athletes from India’s Northeast, including limited infrastructure and exposure.
However, her resolve remained unshaken as she steadily rose through national competitive ranks before showcasing her talents on the international stage. The 15th South Asian Bodybuilding Championship, held from June 11 to 15, 2025, provided the platform where Yajik not only triumphed with a Gold but also secured a Silver Medal in another bodybuilding category.
Experts and sports enthusiasts see her accomplishment as a testament to the strengthening sports fabric in the Northeast and a call for more systemic support to nurture budding athletes, especially women, from this region.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
Yajik’s phenomenal achievement transcends personal glory-it is a beacon of hope and progress for women’s empowerment and representation in sports. At a time when women athletes often face visibility and support challenges within traditionally male-dominated disciplines, her rise illustrates that talent, resilience, and opportunity can pave the way for breaking gender and regional barriers.
The Logical Indian views her success as a call to action to build inclusive sporting ecosystems that welcome and uplift women across India’s diverse geographies.
