Indian distance running witnessed a defining moment on Sunday as Seema produced a career-defining performance at the Tata Steel World 25K Kolkata, clocking 1:26:04 to set a new national record in the women’s 25km event.
Competing in a World Athletics Gold Label Road Race, Seema not only clinched the Indian Elite Women’s title but also rewrote history, bettering L. Suriya’s previous national mark of 1:26:53.
In a race that brought together some of the world’s finest endurance athletes, Seema’s run stood out not just for the numbers on the clock, but for what it represented—a story of perseverance, resilience and steady rise against formidable odds. The Tata Steel World 25K, celebrating its landmark 10th edition, once again proved to be a stage where Indian distance runners could test themselves against global benchmarks, and Seema rose to the occasion in emphatic fashion.
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From the early kilometres, Seema settled into a controlled rhythm, resisting the temptation to go out too hard. Her experience on the road circuit was evident as she paced herself intelligently, gradually asserting dominance within the Indian Elite field. As the kilometres ticked by, it became clear that she was not merely racing for the title, but also chasing history. When she crossed the finish line in 1:26:04, the magnitude of the achievement was unmistakable—a new national record in one of the toughest road distances.
The Kolkata course, known for its fast layout but demanding endurance, saw Indian elites sharing the road with international greats. World marathon champion Alphonce Simbu, world record holder Joshua Cheptegei, Tebello Ramakongoana and two-time champion Sutume Kebede headlined a stacked international field. Indian stars Gulveer Singh, Sawan Barwal, Sanjivani Jadhav and Seema lined up alongside them, underlining the growing confidence and depth of Indian long-distance running.
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For Seema, this record-breaking run is the latest milestone in a journey that has been nothing short of extraordinary. Hailing from Chamba, her early life was marked by hardship. She lost her father at the age of 12 and spent her childhood herding cattle, often running barefoot. Training facilities were limited, resources were scarce, and yet her determination never wavered. Her mother’s unwavering support and sacrifices became the foundation on which Seema built her athletic dreams.
Those dreams have steadily translated into results on the global stage. Earlier in 2025, Seema won a silver medal at the World University Games, signalling her arrival among the country’s most reliable distance runners. Her performance in Kolkata now elevates her to a new level, placing her name firmly in the national record books.
The Tata Steel World 25K has consistently championed equality and opportunity, offering equal prize money for men and women and providing Indian athletes a rare chance to compete in a Gold Label race at home. Over the years, the Indian Elite Women’s category has seen steady progress, with athletes pushing the limits of what seemed possible. In 2023, the podium featured Reshma Kevate, Seema and Nirmaben Thakor Bharatjee, reflecting the growing competitiveness of the field. Two years later, Seema has emerged as the standard-bearer.
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More than just a race win, Seema’s 1:26:04 is a statement of belief. It is proof that with sustained support, exposure and resilience, Indian women can challenge continental and global standards in distance running. For young girls watching from villages and small towns across the country, Seema’s journey from barefoot runs in Chamba to a national record on a global stage is a powerful reminder that talent, when paired with grit, can overcome any obstacle.
At the Tata Steel World 25K Kolkata, Seema didn’t just break a record. She inspired a generation.
