Tough times are inevitable in life. But how we manage ourselves during these times not only defines our spirit but our future too.
Though many of us tend to blame our circumstances, very few gather the courage to fight those circumstances for their dreams.
And, Hima Das is one such brave soul. Irrespective of her tough financial background, this daughter of rice farmers has shown the world that nothing is impossible.
Though Hima was born in the family of farmers, neither her financial condition nor the lack of infrastructure could stop her from achieving great heights. While sharing her heartbreaking life circumstances with HoB, she mentioned:
“Both my mom and dad were rice farmers, with dreams they couldn’t pursue and conditions that held them back. We lived in a joint family, never had enough money, and were stretched for basic resources. But despite that — my parents always told me to make the best of what I have.
As a child, I had a huge interest in sports — especially football. My dad used to play in school, but he couldn’t pursue it because of the lack of money. But he wanted to help me play, as much as he could. I couldn’t afford shoes, and neither did I have a ground where I could practice. So I’d practice in muddy fields.”
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But, then life took a beautiful turn
“Once, my P.E teacher saw me playing in school — he was impressed with how quick I ran and asked me to participate in the inter-district athletics competition. I was worried that I might be at a disadvantage as compared to others — because of the conditions I came from. But all my doubts were cleared… when I ended up winning that competition!
From there, I was spotted by two coaches who thought I had potential and asked me to join their camp in Assam. They’d pay for my stay and all living expenses. I was only 17, and didn’t know if I’d manage alone. But when I told my father, he said that these small challenges would help me achieve my goal — and if one day I get to represent the country, it would have all been worth it!
So I went to the camp, and my routine was very rigorous, I’d wake up before the crack of dawn, train for a couple of hours, and then train again in the evening. I’d have to focus on my health heavily. I’d miss home, and comfort — but I kept going.”
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Her lifelong hard work paid off
“All of that hard work finally lead me to get qualified for the Asian Youth Championship, where I came 7th and then even the World Youth Championship, where I came 5th! I was travelling alone, on an airplane, all over the world for these competitions and it just felt surreal!
I was overcoming every hurdle, and achieving all the goals I’d set for myself. I even got to represent India at the Asian Games and at the IAAF World U20 Championships — where I was the first Indian to win a Gold Medal!Life was changing so much, and so fast. I still remember, when it was declared that I’d be representing India at the Commonwealth Games — and I called my parents to tell them. They didn’t know what it was, but they were so happy, and excited to watch me on T.V!
Today, I’ve even been given the Arjuna award by the President. I’ve won so many medals for India, and have millions of people tell me that they’re so proud of me!”
Her most inspiring words
“Sometimes when you have the vigour to do something, to make it to the top of the mountain — it doesn’t matter what and who you have around, to help. What matters is how willing YOU are, how determined you are and how much you believe in yourself. Because if nothing else, your hope is the one thing…that’s going to take you places.”
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At IFORHER, we salute Hims Das’ determination, courage, and hard work. How she fought against her life circumstances to create a dignified life for herself is quite inspiring. We feel her story is an inspiration for thousands of parents and kids, who are struggling with their life challenges to turn dreams into reality.