Bimal Lakra (born 1980) is an Indian field hockey player who represented India at the international level. A midfielder from Jharkhand, he is part of a notable hockey-playing family from the tribal heartland of the state, a region that has produced several internationals for India.
| Full name | Bimal Lakra |
|---|---|
| Born | 1980 |
| Nationality | Indian |
| Sport | Field hockey |
| Position | Midfielder |
| State | Jharkhand |
| National team | India |
Bimal Lakra hails from the Simdega region of Jharkhand, an area in eastern India long associated with grassroots field hockey, particularly within Adivasi communities. The region has historically been a feeder ground for Indian hockey, supplying players to state, national and international squads. He is the brother of Birendra Lakra, who has also represented India in field hockey, including at the Olympic Games.
Lakra played for the Indian national field hockey team during the 2000s, primarily as a midfielder. He was a part of India's squad at major international tournaments during this period, contributing as a link between defence and attack. At the domestic level, he featured in national tournaments and represented institutional and state sides in Indian hockey competitions.
Bimal Lakra's career is often cited in the context of the strong tradition of hockey in Jharkhand and among India's tribal communities. Along with players such as Michael Kindo, Sylvanus Dungdung and later Birendra Lakra, his progression from regional hockey in Simdega to the national team illustrates the pathway that has sustained Indian hockey from this region.