Hima Das’s pivot from football fields to athletic tracks is the stuff of legend. The ‘Hima of Dhing’ didn’t just switch sports; she dominated them, becoming India’s trailblazing female record-holder in sprints.
Hailing from a small Assamese village, young Hima spent her days playing football barefoot. Her speed caught eyes during school events, leading coach Nipon Das to persuade her parents: ‘Your daughter is born to run.’ Skeptical at first, they relented, and history unfolded.
2018 was her annus mirabilis. Gold at the Asian Junior Championships in the 400m, followed by a historic silver at the Asian Games – the first ever for an Indian woman in that event. Her time of 50.79 seconds not only won medals but set a national benchmark.
Records tumbled in her wake. National record in 400m at the Federation Cup, another in 200m at the Indian Grand Prix. Relays saw her powering India to victories at Asian and Commonwealth levels. Critics called her a ‘one-season wonder,’ but Hima silenced them with consistent brilliance.
Life wasn’t a straight sprint. A stress fracture in 2019 forced a hiatus, testing her resolve. Supported by her family and SAI, she rehabbed fiercely. Her comeback included medals at the National Open Championships, reaffirming her prowess.
Beyond medals, Hima’s impact ripples through society. She’s mentored young athletes in Assam, built training facilities, and championed girls’ sports. As Paris Olympics approach, whispers of a medal podium grow louder. Hima Das embodies resilience – from football dropout to sprint queen, she’s redefining Indian athletics.
