Personality

Hima Das – The Dhing Express

Hima Das, fondly known as “The Dhing Express,” is one of India’s most celebrated sprinters and a symbol of determination, resilience, and extraordinary talent. Born on 9 January 2000 in Kandhulimari village near Dhing in Assam’s Nagaon district, Hima rose to fame with her historic triumphs on the global athletics stage. Her journey from a humble rural background to becoming a world U20 champion has inspired millions across the country.
Hima Das – The Dhing Express from Assam

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Life & Legacy

Early Life and Humble Beginnings

Hima Das grew up in a small farming family where resources were limited, but her spirit was boundless. As the youngest of five siblings, she spent her childhood playing football on muddy village fields. Her incredible pace on the ground did not go unnoticed. A physical education teacher at a nearby Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya saw her potential and encouraged her to pursue sprinting professionally.

Without proper training facilities, shoes, or track, Hima practiced barefoot on uneven fields. These early struggles not only strengthened her resolve but also laid the foundation for the speed and endurance that later helped her conquer international tracks.

Rise to Professional Athletics

Hima’s life took a significant turn when she moved to Guwahati in 2017 to train under coach Nipon Das. Training in a disciplined environment brought structure to her natural talent. Despite initial struggles—financial constraints, adjusting to city life, and rigorous training—Hima remained focused and determined.

Her breakthrough moment came in 2018, when she created history at the IAAF World U20 Championships in Tampere, Finland. She won the gold medal in the 400m event, clocking 51.46 seconds, becoming the first Indian athlete to win a gold medal in a global track event. This victory made her a household name and marked the beginning of a remarkable journey in world athletics.

Historic Feats at Asian Games 2018

Hima’s success continued at the 2018 Asian Games in Jakarta. She won:

  • Silver in the 400m event

  • Gold in the women’s 4x400m relay

  • Gold in the mixed 4x400m relay
    She also broke the Indian national record in the 400m with an outstanding time of 50.79 seconds.

These achievements earned Hima admiration across the nation and positioned her as one of the fastest rising stars in Asian athletics.

Golden Run of 2019

In 2019, Hima showcased exceptional consistency in Europe, winning five back-to-back gold medals within a month in international meets across Poland and the Czech Republic. Her victories in 200m and 400m events strengthened her position as India’s sprinting powerhouse.

Challenges and Comeback

Every great athlete faces hurdles, and Hima is no exception. In late 2019, she struggled with a back injury, which limited her participation in global competitions. Later, in 2023–24, she faced an anti-doping rule violation suspension, which she eventually completed by November 2024.

Despite these setbacks, Hima’s spirit remains unshaken. Her grit continues to inspire countless young athletes across India.

Beyond Athletics – A Role Model for the Nation

In 2021, Hima Das was appointed as Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) under the Assam Government’s sports quota—an honour that acknowledges her contribution to sports and society. She has also served as a UNICEF Youth Ambassador, motivating young people toward education, sports, and social development.

Known for her humility, dedication, and commitment, Hima symbolizes the dreams of millions of rural youth striving for a better future.

Quick Info Table on Hima Das

InformationDetails
Full NameHima Das
NicknameThe Dhing Express
Date of Birth9 January 2000
BirthplaceKandhulimari, Dhing, Nagaon (Assam)
SportSprinting (200m, 400m, Relay)
Major AchievementWorld U20 Champion – 400m Gold (2018)
National Record400m – 50.79 seconds
Asian Games Medals2 Gold, 1 Silver (2018)
ProfessionAthlete, DSP (Assam Police)
Best Time to Visit Her HometownOctober to March


FAQs on Hima Das

  1. Who is Hima Das and why is she called the Dhing Express?
    Hima Das is an Indian sprinter from Dhing, Assam, nicknamed “Dhing Express” for her exceptional speed.

  2. What is Hima Das’s biggest achievement?
    She became the first Indian to win a gold medal at the World U20 Championships in 2018.

  3. Where was Hima Das born?
    She was born in Kandhulimari village near Dhing in Assam’s Nagaon district.

  4. What is Hima Das’s national record?
    She holds India’s 400m national record at 50.79 seconds.

  5. How many gold medals did Hima Das win in 2019?
    She won five consecutive gold medals in a month in Poland and the Czech Republic.

  6. Has Hima Das won medals in the Asian Games?
    Yes, she won one silver and two gold medals in the 2018 Asian Games.

  7. What is Hima Das’s educational background?
    She studied at Dhing Public School and pursued higher studies at Cotton University.

  8. Is Hima Das part of the Assam Police?
    Yes, she was appointed as a Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) in 2021.

  9. What events does Hima Das compete in?
    She specializes in 200m, 400m, and 4×400m relay events.

  10. How can I visit Hima Das’s hometown?
    Dhing is accessible by road from Guwahati and Nagaon, with nearby train and air connectivity.