Who Was The First Assamese To Participate In The Olympics?
Dipankar Bhattacharjee holds the distinction of being the first Assamese to participate in the Olympics, representing India in badminton at the 1992 Barcelona Olympics. Born in Guwahati, Assam, Dipankar’s remarkable career and dedication to the sport have made him a legendary figure in Indian badminton.
He went on to represent India once again at the 1996 Atlanta Olympics, becoming the only male Indian badminton player to compete in two Olympic Games. Throughout his career, Dipankar earned numerous national titles and continues to be celebrated as the only national badminton champion from Northeast India.
Key Details:
- Sport: Badminton
- Birthplace: Guwahati, Assam
- Olympic Appearances: 1992 (Barcelona) and 1996 (Atlanta)
- Significance: First Assamese Olympian and national badminton champion from Northeast India
While some refer to Dr. Talimeren Ao—the captain of India’s 1948 Olympic football team—as the first Assamese to participate in the Olympics, Ao was ethnically Naga. Therefore, in terms of Assamese identity, Dipankar Bhattacharjee is recognized as the first Assamese Olympian, marking a proud chapter in Assam’s sporting history.