"Dream, Dream, Dream! Conduct these dreams into thoughts, and then transform them into action."
- Dr. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam
16 Jun 2025
Hillang Yajik, a 25-year-old bodybuilder from Kurung Kumey, Arunachal Pradesh, has made history by becoming the first woman athlete from her state to win a gold medal in physique sports at an international tournament. Yajik's journey to the top was not easy, but her determination and hard work have paid off in a big way. She clinched a gold medal in the Women's Model Physique (up to 155 cm) category and a silver medal in another category at the 15th South Asian Bodybuilding and Physique Sports Championships 2025 in Thimphu, Bhutan.
A Journey of Hradwork
Yajik's interest in bodybuilding began when she was selected to represent India at the 56th Asian Bodybuilding & Physique Sports Championship last year. She also participated in the 15th WBPF World Bodybuilding & Physique Sports Championship, which gave her the exposure and experience she needed to take her skills to the next level. Despite facing challenges and setbacks, Yajik remained focused on her goal and worked tirelessly to achieve it.
The 15th South Asian Bodybuilding and Physique Sports Championships 2025
The 15th South Asian Bodybuilding and Physique Sports Championships 2025 is a prestigious sports event held in Thimphu, Bhutan, from June 11 to 15. 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), witnessed participation from several South Asian nations. The event featured various categories, including men's and women's bodybuilding, physique, and sports physique, with athletes competing in different weight and height categories.
The championship was conducted with utmost professionalism, with a panel of judges evaluating the athletes' performances based on their muscular development, posing, and overall physique. The event was a celebration of athleticism, dedication, and sportsmanship, with athletes from across the region coming together to showcase their skills and compete for the top honors. The championship was proof of the growing popularity of bodybuilding and physique sports in South Asia, and it provided a platform for athletes to showcase their talents and gain international exposure.
A Moment of Glory
Yajik's historic victory in Bhutan was a moment of immense pride for her, her family, and her state. She dedicated her medal to her nation, her state, Arunachal Pradesh, her coach, and herself. Her achievement is a reflection of the power of hard work and determination, and it is an inspiration to young athletes from the Northeast to pursue excellence in physique sports.
A Trendsetter in Every Sense
Yajik's achievement is not just a personal triumph but also a milestone for the state of Arunachal Pradesh. She has become a role model for young girls and women in the state, showing them that with dedication, they can achieve their goals and make a name for themselves in the world of sports.
Chief Minister Pema Khandu lavished praise on Yajik for her dazzling performance at the championship. "Your dedication, discipline, and determination have carved a proud chapter for Arunachal and the nation," Khandu wrote on X. Yajik's achievement is proof of the potential of athletes from the Northeast, and it is a matter of pride for the state and the country. Yajik's success has inspired a new generation of athletes from the Northeast to pursue excellence in physique sports. Her achievement shows that with hard work, determination, and the right support, anyone can achieve their goals and make a name for themselves in the world of sports.