Keeping up with Hima Das

From running barefoot on the paddy fields in her village, Dhing in rural Assam to having her name on custom made Adidas shoes. Sprinter Hima Das, nicknamed the ‘Dhing Express’, gets candid on life after her golden feat at the Asian Games 2018.

Football was her first love, athletics happened to her by chance. But two years after choosing to pursue it professionally, Hima Das is now one of India’s fastest women. She is also a three-time Asian Games medalist, an Arjuna Awardee and the national record-holder in 400m, an event she started competing in only this year. The young runner displayed an unusual calm and level-headed confidence about her achievement and sudden fame.

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What is it that striked you about athletics and how did you end up joining athletics?

I had to start from scratch. I did not know anything about the sport. Now because of athletics, I have been able to make my mark in the world of sports. It was a matter of immense pride and I was overwhelmed with emotion after my win, to be able to wear the Indian jersey and to be representing our country was a big responsibility and honour. Everyone recognizes Hima Das as an athlete worldwide that gives me motivation to continue my journey as an athlete.

What do you like about this overnight fame?

The straight fact about sports is that it is a fair game. The one to get to the finish line first wins and the one who comes in last is the one who is slow. No manipulations. It is a fair play so all the glory that comes with it is because I have worked hard towards it.

What has been the highlight of your career so far?

There are so many but the win at Asian Games in Jakarta and the Commonwealth Games are memorable. Having said that I still have many more feats to accomplish and the race has just begun.

I still have many more feats to accomplish and the race has just begun.

Who are the people who have been monumental in your journey so far?

None of this would have been possible without the support of my family both my parents and my coaches, Nipon Das and Putul Bora sir, who I thank, for believing in my potential to race and beat all odds.

#Mon Jai would you tell us more about the meaning of this?

Mon Jai literally translates to ‘Heart desires’, that’s something I have always believed in.

Everything that you set your heart to is achievable, we need to understand though what is it that one’s heart truly desires and walk towards it.

On the ADIDAS collaboration?

ADIDAS and HIMA DAS there’s a ring to it isn’t it. The reason to associate with the brand is because they are one of the biggest names in sportswear and I have been wearing a lot of their gear when I am on the track. Being endorsed by them is honorary.

On becoming the sports ambassador for Assam and the North-East region how do you plan on encouraging youngsters to take up sports as a profession?

Well there are many sportsmen and sportswomen from the region representing India in major sporting events at this time in sports. The government has been really supportive of the same and has introduced many schemes that can attract more youngsters into taking sports professionally. Times are changing slowly but surely.

What will be your message to your many fans and people who look up to you as a youth icon?

You have to recognize your talent and know what you can achieve. Being a sports icon you can use this as your platform to be able to bring in change and do something for your community at the same time you can be a star player. And yes the money will flow.

Tell us about your struggles on this path to stardom?

I am still reeling from all the success and buzz and trying to let it all sink in. The touring and practice sessions that has been keeping me occupied I honestly haven’t have had the time to think about my struggles.

From the October 2018 issue of FHM India.