Gulmarg, Feb 22 (NationPress) The journey of the Himachal Pradesh team over the initial five editions of the Khelo India Winter Games is a remarkable testament to perseverance and a deep affection for snow. From its debut as an aspiring participant in 2020 to becoming a medal-winning powerhouse, the state has steadily risen to challenge more renowned winter sports regions.

The inaugural Khelo India Winter Games in 2020 combined festivity with competition, where Jammu and Kashmir, renowned for its snow culture, topped the medal count with a remarkable haul. Although the participation of Himachal Pradesh was modest, it was significant, granting athletes critical national exposure and experience.

By the second edition in 2021, Himachal Pradesh’s winter athletes had made their mark with over 1,000 participants and increased involvement from the state. Early indicators of podium potential in Alpine and Nordic events hinted at better achievements in the future, even though they were not yet widely recognized.

The third edition in 2023 marked a significant breakthrough for Himachal Pradesh, where the team clinched 10 gold, 14 silver, and 7 bronze medals, concluding the event in a commendable third place overall, trailing behind established winter sports dominators.

It was during this time that the athletes from Himachal Pradesh began to be seen not merely as participants but as serious contenders on the national stage. The slopes that had previously been the domain of renowned teams now showcased Himachali flags.

As 2023 represented their entry into the elite levels, 2024 solidified their position among the top contenders. This year, the state amassed 15 medals—5 gold, 4 silver, and 6 bronze—ranking second nationally, a remarkable achievement given its limited winter sports infrastructure.

The standout athletes that year included Aanchal Thakur, who became a prominent figure for Himachal Pradesh’s medal tally in 2025. Born on August 28, 1996, in Manali, Thakur made history in 2018 as the first Indian skier to win a medal at an International Ski Federation event. She earned two gold medals at the 5th Khelo India Winter Games, excelling in both the alpine skiing slalom and giant slalom events.

“The conditions were challenging, visibility was low, and temperatures were frigid, yet my spirits remained high,” Aanchal shared with SAI Media. “I began skiing at the age of five and bring over 20 years of experience to this sport. I once practiced on wooden skis, which made it tough, but after winning medals in junior nationals, I trained in Europe.”

“In 2012, I represented India at the Winter Youth Olympics in Innsbruck, Austria. Since then, I’ve participated in six World Championships and two Asian Games,” Aanchal stated, adding, “The atmosphere at the Khelo India Winter Games inspires us athletes to strive for excellence for our states and country.”

Snowboarder Preeti Thakur also made headlines by securing gold medals and podium finishes across diverse disciplines. Her victories in relays and team events propelled Himachal Pradesh’s momentum, transforming individual ambitions into collective success. This marked a significant shift: Himachal Pradesh was no longer in the shadow of dominant winter sports nations; it had carved out its own narrative.

During the 5th Khelo India Winter Games in 2025, Himachal Pradesh delivered what was arguably its most stunning performance to date. The state earned a total of 6 gold, 5 silver, and 7 bronze medals, tying for second place overall with the Indian Army, a formidable competitor, owing to outstanding performances across various sports.

Himachal athletes consistently exceeded expectations. Tenzin Dolma, an inspiring figure beyond her podium finish, won gold in the women’s ski mountaineering vertical race, showcasing endurance that outperformed the mountain’s challenges. Her teammate Natasha Mahar secured silver, marking a memorable Himachal Pradesh one-two finish.

In the men’s Alpine slalom event, Yogesh Kumar clinched gold, underlining Himachal Pradesh’s growing prowess in vital skiing competitions. Snowboarding specialists Sakshi Thakur and Natasha Mahar also contributed to the medal count, emphasizing the state's versatility in skiing and snowboarding.

Throughout five editions, the evolution of Himachal Pradesh at the Khelo India Winter Games reflects relentless ambition. Beginning with tentative efforts in 2020 and 2021, it has become a consistent medal contender by 2024 and 2025. The journey resembles a sprint up a mountain, fueled by both personal passion and team collaboration.

As the forthcoming editions, including the Gulmarg leg of the 2026 games, draw near, these winter athletes from the mountain state will undoubtedly be ones to watch. The Games commence on Monday and conclude on February 26.