Asian medallist runner features in music video during injury break

It has been quite a transformation for Harmilan Bains (26), who clinched silver medals in both the 800m and 1500m races at the 2022 Hangzhou Asian Games—following in the footsteps of her mother, Madhuri.

The accomplished athlete recently made headlines in a different spotlight, featuring in a Punjabi music video titled ‘7 Din’. From intense workouts on athletic tracks to striking poses on a music set, her switch has garnered attention—earning the video over 1.4 million views.

Currently undergoing a six-month athletic training session in Leh, Harmilan had always viewed modelling as a second career option. Often admired for her glamorous persona, she’s known for her streaked curly hair, body tattoos and fashion-forward Instagram posts in both Western and traditional outfits—earning her the nickname “The Queen.”

However, her father, Amandeep Bains—himself a former national athlete based in Mahilpur, Hoshiarpur—said this was only a temporary diversion to help her cope with a difficult phase. Harmilan suffered a Grade 2 hamstring injury just ahead of the Paris Olympics, which led to a deep emotional slump. She had even spoken publicly about facing suicidal thoughts during her recovery.

“It was not easy for her to accept that she wouldn’t be able to participate in the Olympics after years of hard work. She had to undergo surgery at PGI Chandigarh and her recovery was taking longer than expected. We wanted her to stay engaged mentally. Around that time, she received an offer from Mohali-based singer Harbeer Sohal and we gave her the go-ahead. The video was shot about three months ago and released two weeks ago,” he shared.

Amandeep added, “Harmilan has recovered well and regained her strength, stamina and resilience. Last month, she expressed her desire to return to athletics. She has now resumed high-altitude training in Leh, where she’ll continue until December. Her eyes are set on the 2027 Asian Games and the Los Angeles Olympics. She knows time is on her side and is determined not to miss her goal this time.”

After moving from the Punjab Athletics Association to Chandigarh, Harmilan also secured a job as a Class I officer—Assistant Manager—with the RBI.

Jalandhar