Itanagar: Arunachal Pradesh’s Hillang Yajik has clinched a gold medal at the 15th South Asian Bodybuilding and Physique Sports Championships 2025 held in Thimphu, Bhutan.
She secured a gold medal in the Women’s Model Physique (up to 155 cm) category and a silver medal in another category.
Yajik’s outstanding performance made her the first woman athlete from the state to win gold in physique sports at an international tournament, which was held from June 11 to 15.
“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!” Chief Minister Pema Khandu posted on X.
Union Minister of Parliamentary Affairs Kiren Rijiju also lauded the athlete for her phenomenal feat
“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!”
Rajya Sabha MP Satnam Singh Sandhu extended wishes to Yajik and wrote on X, “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 2024 in Thimphu, Bhutan! Great to see Indian women establishing themselves at international level for bodybuilding and fitness.”
Known to be the first female bodybuilder, the 25-year-old got into the limelight after being chosen to represent India at the 56th Asian Bodybuilding & Physique Sports Championship last year. Furthermore, she also participated in the 15th WBPF World Bodybuilding & Physique Sports Championship.
Arunachal Bodybuilding Association (ABA) President Nabam Tuna hailed Hillang Yajik for her achievement, lauding it as a success not only for her but the entire nation.