For decades, Indian judo remained on the margins of the country's sports scene, often overshadowed by cricket, hockey, and wrestling. That changed in September 2025, when 20-year-old Himanshi Tokas from Munirka, South Delhi, became the first-ever Indian judoka to secure the No. 1 position in the International Judo Federation's (IJF) junior world rankings in the women's 63 kg category. Her achievement is a landmark moment, not only for Indian judo but also for women's sports in India, signaling the arrival of new champions in disciplines once thought to be beyond reach.

The Roots of a Fighter

Born into a modest family, Himanshi's journey was not easy. She faced resistance at home, with family members initially skeptical about her pursuing a demanding contact sport like judo. Matters got worse when a serious eye injury nearly derailed her career in its early stages. But through it all, one figure remained a constant pillar of strength: her mother, who stood firmly by her daughter's side, refusing to let circumstances dictate her future. 

Himanshi's grit, combined with her mother's belief, kept her going even when the path seemed uncertain. Her first big breakthrough came in 2019, when she won silver at the Sub-Junior Nationals, a medal that silenced critics and gave her a taste of what was possible with persistence.

The Turning Point: Khelo India to National Excellence

In 2020, Himanshi finished fifth at the Khelo India Youth Games. While it may not have been a podium finish, it opened the doors to something bigger: an opportunity to train at the Sports Authority of India's National Centre of Excellence in Bhopal. Here, she came under the guidance of coach Yashpal Solanki, whose mentorship and tactical insights sharpened her competitive edge. Himanshi also benefited from international exposure, particularly training camps in Japan, the birthplace of judo, where she encountered diverse fighting styles and learned to adapt dynamically, an aspect she felt was missing among many Indian judokas.

Breakthrough Season of 2025

The year 2025 marked a turning point in Himanshi Tokas' career, as she strategically focused on tournaments that maximized ranking points and delivered a string of victories that propelled her to global recognition. She clinched gold medals at the Casablanca African Open in January, the Taipei Junior Asian Cup in July, and most notably at the Asian Junior Championships in September. Her triumph at the Asian Juniors on September 12, 2025, was particularly defining; after defeating fellow Indian Linthoi Chanambam in the semifinals, she overpowered Uzbekistan's Nigina Saparbova in the final to seal the title. These wins earned her 610 ranking points, enough to climb three spots and secure the coveted junior world No. 1 position.

Backing and Support Systems

Himanshi's growth has not been hers alone. It represents the fruit of emerging grassroots programs and institutional backing. The Reliance Foundation supported her journey, while India's sports ecosystem, through SAI and exposure tours, has begun investing in athletes beyond traditional strongholds. Himanshi Tokas' story is more than a list of medals and rankings. It is about breaking stereotypes and redefining possibilities for young Indian girls who dare to dream beyond traditional expectations. From a child who nearly gave up after an eye injury to becoming the world's top-ranked junior judoka, her journey resonates with every parent, coach, and aspiring athlete who believes that determination can overcome any barrier.

Looking Ahead

Himanshi Tokas has already carved her name in history. The road ahead will be challenging, especially on the senior stage, but her current trajectory suggests that she has both the talent and temperament to succeed. With continued support, global exposure, and her never-giving-up spirit, Himanshi could well become India's first Olympic medalist in judo, a dream that once seemed impossible but now feels within reach.