The Indian bodybuilding and film fraternity is mourning the untimely death of Varinder Singh Ghuman, one of the country’s most celebrated fitness icons and the world’s first professional vegetarian bodybuilder. The 42-year-old athlete passed away on Thursday evening at a private hospital in Amritsar following a heart attack.
Born in Jalandhar, Punjab, Ghuman rose from humble beginnings to become an inspiration for countless aspiring fitness enthusiasts. Known for his towering physique, discipline, and unique stance on vegetarianism in bodybuilding, he broke long-standing stereotypes that muscle growth required a meat-heavy diet. His journey blended tradition, ethics, and modern fitness—making him a role model across generations.
From Local Competitions to Global Recognition
Ghuman’s career took off when he won the Mr. India title in 2009, earning him a place among the country’s elite athletes. The same year, he secured 2nd place at the Mr. Asia Championship, solidifying his status on the international stage. His dedication and consistent hard work later earned him the IFBB Pro Card, making him the first Indian bodybuilder to achieve this milestone.
Beyond the stage, his personality and charisma soon found their way to the silver screen. Ghuman starred in the Punjabi film “Kabaddi Once Again” (2012) and appeared in several Bollywood movies, including “Roar: Tigers of the Sundarbans” (2014), “Marjaavaan” (2019), and most recently, “Tiger 3” (2023) alongside Salman Khan. His commanding presence made him a natural fit for action-packed roles.
A Life Rooted in Simplicity and Hard Work
Despite his fame, Ghuman remained deeply connected to his roots. His family runs a dairy farm, and he often credited his rural upbringing for instilling the values of discipline, simplicity, and strength. Known among peers as a calm and grounded individual, he often emphasized the importance of natural living and clean eating.
Tragically, Ghuman had been recovering from a bicep injury surgery when he suffered the fatal heart attack. Reports indicate that the surgery was successful, but his sudden cardiac arrest came as a shock to friends and fans alike.
Legacy of a Vegetarian Powerhouse
In an industry often dominated by non-vegetarian fitness diets, Ghuman’s achievements redefined the limits of plant-based strength. He proved that consistency, dedication, and belief matter more than stereotypes. Fitness icons across India, including fellow bodybuilders and actors, have paid heartfelt tributes on social media, calling him “a true lion of Indian bodybuilding.”
Remembering Varinder Ghuman
From winning titles to representing Indian fitness on the world stage and making his mark in films, Varinder Ghuman’s journey was one of grit, inspiration, and legacy. His passing leaves behind a void not just in bodybuilding but in the hearts of those who believed in his message — that true strength comes from the mind, not just the body.
