Hamida Bano: India’s First Muslim Woman Asian Games Medalist Passes Away, Leaving a Trailblazing Legacy

Udaipur, Rajasthan—India mourns the loss of Hamida Bano, a pioneering athlete who broke barriers and redefined sports for women and minorities in the country. Hamida, who was undergoing treatment at Udaipur's American hospital, passed away on Saturday after a prolonged illness. Her passing marks the end of an era, but her extraordinary journey continues to inspire generations.

Hamida Bano achieved what few could dream of. She became the first Muslim woman in India to win a medal at the Asian Games, a feat she accomplished at the 1982 games in Delhi by clinching silver.

Her victory not only brought pride to her hometown of Udaipur but also shattered stereotypes, paving the way for inclusivity in Indian athletics.

Her achievements extended beyond the Asian Games, as she remains:

• The first and only Muslim woman employee of Indian Railways to earn an Asian Games medal.

• The first woman athlete from Rajasthan to achieve international success in athletics.

• The first woman from Udaipur to compete in international sports events.

Hamida’s career exemplified resilience and dedication, overcoming societal challenges to establish herself as a symbol of empowerment for women and minority communities.

Her accomplishments earned her numerous prestigious honors, including the Maharana Sajjan Singh Award, Manak Suvaran Medal, and the Major Dhyan Chand Award, cementing her legacy in Indian sports.

Hamida Bano’s influence went beyond her athletic achievements. She became a trailblazer for Muslim women in sports, inspiring countless young girls to pursue their dreams against all odds. She also served Indian Railways as the Chief Office Superintendent, where her commitment and professionalism earned widespread respect. A retired colleague from Railway Training Institute A.V Mohankumar remembers her as " one of the best sympathetic human being I have ever come across and a highly cooperative colleague in Railway".

Medals Won by Hamida Bano

• 1979, Madras: Gold medal in 400-meter race at International Games.

• 1980, Germany: Bronze medal as a sprinter at the International Asian Games.

• 1981, Pune: Gold medals in 400-meter race, hurdles, and 4x400-meter relay at the International Athletics Meet.

• 1981, Japan: Silver and bronze medals at the Fourth Asian Track and Field Meet.

• 1982, Japan: Silver medal in the 400-meter race and bronze medal in the 400-meter hurdles at the International Athletics Meet.

• 1982, Pune: Gold medals in 400-meter race and hurdles at the International Asian Games.

• 1982, New Delhi: Silver medal in 400-meter hurdles and bronze medal in 4x400-meter relay at the Ninth Asian Games.

• 1982, Mumbai: Gold, silver, and bronze medals in 400-meter race, 400-meter hurdles, and 4x400-meter relay at the International Athletics Meet.

Even after retiring from competitive athletics, Hamida made headlines when she returned to the field after 40 years to compete in the Rajiv Gandhi Olympic Games, proving that her spirit of perseverance remained undiminished.

Hamida’s journey broke new ground in Indian sports, challenging societal norms and inspiring an entire generation. Her achievements highlighted the importance of inclusivity and representation, particularly for women and minorities in athletics. She was also among the select few to train alongside legends like PT Usha, underscoring her stature in Indian athletics.

Hamida Bano’s passing has left a void in the hearts of many. Tributes have poured in from across the nation, celebrating her contributions and the barriers she shattered. Her legacy as a trailblazing athlete, a symbol of resilience, and a pioneer for women in sports will continue to resonate for years to come.