Animesh Kujur The Inspiring Journey of India’s Fastest Man
Introduction – The Rise of a Sprinting Star
When you think of speed in Indian athletics, one name now dominates the conversation—Animesh Kujur, the young sprinter who has redefined how fast an Indian can run. From his humble beginnings in Chhattisgarh to becoming the national record holder in the 100m and 200m, Animesh’s journey is a story of raw talent, unshakable determination, and world-class training.
Early Life – From Football Dreams to Sprinting Glory
Animesh Kujur didn’t start as a runner. In his school days at a boarding institution in Chhattisgarh, he was more interested in football. Fate intervened when he participated in a local athletics meet and won multiple gold medals. That unexpected victory revealed his natural sprinting ability and changed his career path forever
Family Support – The Backbone of His Success
Unlike many athletes from sports-oriented families, Animesh had no athletic legacy to follow. Initially, his mother was unsure about this unconventional path, but his father gave him the green light: “We are ready. Do it, who’s stopping you?” That single moment of support became the fuel that powered his early ambitions.
The Turning Point – Professional Training at the Reliance HPC
Animesh’s big break came when Martin Owens, head coach at the Reliance High-Performance Centre in Odisha, spotted him at a U-23 event. Despite being physically unrefined—he could barely squat or swim at the time—Animesh showed a burning desire to improve. Under Owens’ guidance, he transformed into a technically sound and disciplined sprinter.
Discipline and Lifestyle – The Silent Strength of a Champion
What makes Animesh different is not just his speed but his lifestyle. He is a deeply introspective person who values routine and discipline. His day starts at 5:00 AM with intense track training, followed by gym work, stretching, and recovery sessions. Evenings are tech-free—he avoids phone use after 9 PM to ensure proper rest and mental focus.
Training Abroad – Learning from the Best in Europe
In 2025, Animesh spent a month training and competing in Europe, including events like the U-23 Monaco Diamond League. He observed the meticulous warm-up routines, the mental focus of elite athletes, and the competitive mindset that separates the good from the great. This international exposure sharpened his skills and gave him the confidence to compete at the world level.
Breaking Records – Redefining Indian Sprinting Standards
The year 2025 became historic for Indian athletics when Animesh clocked 10.18 seconds in the 100m and 20.32 seconds in the 200m, both national records. Despite battling illness and pressure, he won the 200m Continental Tour final with a time of 20.77 seconds—cementing his reputation as India’s fastest man.
Mindset – Always Hungry for Improvement
Even after breaking records, Animesh is far from satisfied. Post-competition reflections with his coach often focus on what can be improved—better starts, more explosive acceleration, and stronger finishes. His mindset is clear: each race is a lesson, not just a result.
Future Goals – Aiming for Global Glory
Animesh’s immediate target is the World Championships in Tokyo in September 2025. Beyond that, his eyes are set on the 2026 Asian Games, Commonwealth Games, and the 2028 Olympics. With his speed, discipline, and growing international exposure, he is on track to become one of India’s greatest-ever sprinters.
Key Takeaways – Why Animesh Kujur Inspires the Nation
- National Record Holder: Fastest 100m and 200m ever by an Indian.
- International Exposure: Gained elite training experience in Europe.
- Discipline & Dedication: Strict daily routine, focus on mental and physical fitness.
- Future-Oriented: Clear goals for global championships and Olympics.
Conclusion – A Sprinting Legacy in the Making
Animesh Kujur’s journey from a football-loving schoolboy to the fastest sprinter in India is proof that with the right guidance, discipline, and self-belief, dreams can be turned into record-breaking realities. His story is not just about speed—it’s about resilience, focus, and the courage to chase greatness.