New Delhi: In a moment of pride for Arunachal Pradesh and India, Hillang Yajik has made history by winning gold and silver at the 15th South Asian Bodybuilding and Physique Sports Championships 2025 held in Thimphu, Bhutan. With her outstanding performance, Yajik has become the first woman athlete from Arunachal Pradesh to win a gold medal in physique sports at an international event.
Representing India at the prestigious regional championship, Yajik clinched gold in the Women’s Model Physique (up to 155 cm) category and added a silver medal in another category, cementing her status as a rising star in the world of bodybuilding and fitness.
The championship, held from June 11 to 15, witnessed participation from top athletes across South Asia. Yajik’s feat has been widely celebrated, especially by the leaders from her home state and across the nation.
Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu lauded her groundbreaking achievement, taking to social media to congratulate her. “Big applause to Ms. Hillang Yajik for her phenomenal feat at the 15th South Asian Bodybuilding & Physique Sports Championships 2025 in Thimphu, Bhutan! With 1 Gold and 1 Silver medal, she becomes the first-ever woman from our state to clinch an international Gold in physique sports — a trailblazer in every sense! Your dedication, discipline, and determination have carved a proud chapter for Arunachal and the nation. More power to you, Hillang,” Khandu wrote on X (formerly Twitter).
Union Minister of Parliamentary Affairs Kiren Rijiju also extended his congratulations, calling her win historic. “I’m delighted as India’s Miss Hillang Yajik wins 1 Gold and 1 Silver Medal at 15th South Asian Bodybuilding & Physique Sports Championships 2025 at Thimphu in Bhutan. Hillang Yajik is from Arunachal Pradesh, who has created a history. Hearty Congratulations to Hillang Yajik!” he posted.
Rajya Sabha MP Satnam Singh Sandhu echoed the praise, stating, “Congratulations to Hillang Yajik from Arunachal Pradesh for making India proud! Her stellar performance and dedication towards fitness has won her 1 Gold & 1 Silver medal at the 15th South Asian Bodybuilding & Physique Sports Championships 2025 in Thimphu, Bhutan! Great to see Indian women establishing themselves at international level for bodybuilding and fitness.”
Hillang Yajik’s achievement not only marks a milestone for Arunachal Pradesh but also stands as a testament to the growing presence and success of Indian women in the realm of international bodybuilding and physique sports. Her victory is expected to inspire a new generation of athletes—especially women—from the northeastern region to pursue their passion in fitness and competitive sports.
With her eyes now set on future international competitions, Yajik’s journey is far from over. But for now, she stands tall as a symbol of determination, resilience, and excellence.
