In a nation where cricket typically dominates the sports headlines, a group of remarkable individuals has been quietly building a legacy in the world of bodybuilding. India has produced a slew of extraordinary bodybuilders who have made their mark on both national and international stages. Among this elite group, several names stand out for their sheer dedication, impressive achievements, and indomitable spirit. In this blog, we will delve into the lives and accomplishments of some of Indian most renowned bodybuilders.
1. Suhas Khamkar: The Indian Titan
Birthdate: 9 August 1980 (Age: 43)
Birthplace: Kolhapur, Maharashtra, India
Height: 5 ft 9 in (175 cm)
Weight: 86–90 kg (190–198 lb)
Pro-debut: Mr. India (2010)
Best win: Mr. Amateur Olympia (Champion of Champion, 2018)
Born and raised in a family of bodybuilders in Kolhapur, Maharashtra, Suhas Khamkar is a name that reverberates through the Indian bodybuilding scene. The 43-year-old powerhouse has clinched the Mr. India title a remarkable ten times and holds the Mr. Maharashtra title eight times over. His crowning achievement came in 2010 when he became the first Indian to secure the Mr. Asia title. In 2018, Suhas added another feather to his cap by winning the prestigious Mr. Amateur Olympia – Champion of Champion title. His journey is a testament to hard work, consistency, and an unquenchable thirst for victory.
2. Sangram Chougule: The Resilient Champion
Birthdate: 28 December 1979 (Age: 43)
Birthplace: Kolhapur, India
Height: 5 ft 8 in (1.73 m)
International Achievements:
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1st Place – Mr. Universe (2012)
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1st Place – Mr. World (2014)
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2nd Place – Mr. Asia (2012)
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3rd Place – Mr. Universe (2011)
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3rd Place – Mr. Asia (2011)
Mr. India Titles:
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1st Place – Goa (2010)
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1st Place – Bengaluru (2011)
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1st Place – Hyderabad (2012)
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1st Place – Karnataka (2012)
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1st Place – Kerala (2013)
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1st Place – Gujarat (2015)
Sangram Chougule, an electrical engineer by profession, has carved a niche for himself in the world of bodybuilding. Hailing from Kolhapur, Sangram achieved the incredible feat of winning the Mr. India title six consecutive times from 2010 to 2015. However, his standout accomplishments include two Mr. World titles, secured in 2012 and 2014. He has also triumphed as the Mr. Universe in 2012. The 43-year-old now operates a successful gym in Pune, continuing to inspire aspiring bodybuilders.
3. Rajendra Mani: The Indian Super Hulk
Nickname: Indian Super Hulk
Birthdate: 1974
Birthplace: Chennai, India
Height: 5 ft 8 in (1.73 m)
Best win: Two times World champion (2013, 2016)
Rajendra Mani, aptly nicknamed the “Indian Super Hulk,” boasts a physique that defies age and expectations. At 49 years old, he stands as one of the veterans in Indian bodybuilding. With numerous national and international medals to his name, Rajendra Mani has achieved iconic status in the sport. His conquests include the Mr. Asia title in 2009 and victory in the men’s 90kg category at the 2013 World Bodybuilding and Physique Sports Championships. His sheer dedication to the sport continues to inspire aspiring bodybuilders across the nation.
4. Arambam Boby Singh: Ageless Warrior
Nickname: Boby
Birthdate: 1 February 1975 (Age: 48)
Birthplace: Manipur, India
Height: 165 cm (5 ft 5 in)
Weight: 80 Kgs
Pro-debut: Jr. Mr. Manipur -1995, Champion of the Champions Sr. Mr. India 1998
Best win: Eight times World Champion (2010–2018: 7 Gold, 1 Silver, 1 Bronze)
Arambam Boby Singh, at 48 years old, shatters stereotypes with his age-defying achievements. From the state that produced the legendary Mary Kom, Boby Singh has emerged as a dominant force in Indian bodybuilding. He has seized the Mr. India title an astounding 12 times, a testament to his enduring excellence. Boby’s trophy cabinet gleams with eight Mr. World titles, five Mr. Asia titles, and three Mr. South Asia titles. Remarkably, he typically competes in the 75 kg category, further showcasing his exceptional prowess. Boby embarked on his bodybuilding journey in 1995 and continues to inspire the next generation with his tenacity.
5. Murli Kumar: Navy to Bodybuilder
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Full Name: Murli Kumar
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Weight: 215 – 225 lbs (93.0 – 102.1 kg)
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Year of Birth: 1985
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Nationality: Indian
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Profession: Professional Bodybuilder
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Era: 2000, 2010
Murli Kumar’s transformation from serving in the Indian Navy to becoming a formidable bodybuilder is nothing short of remarkable. Starting his weightlifting journey at the age of 25, Murli found unwavering inspiration from his friends. This fueled his ambition to pursue professional bodybuilding, resulting in a meteoric rise. In 2013, Murli achieved the prestigious title of Mr. India, and since then, he has continued to excel in numerous professional competitions, cementing his status as one of India’s top bodybuilding champions.
6. Wasim Khan: The International Sensation
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Profession: Bodybuilding
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Hobbies: Exercises
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Birthplace: New Delhi, India
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Nationality: Indian
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Religion: Muslim
Delhi-born Wasim Khan etched his name in history by winning the International Bodybuilding and Fitness Federation Event (IBFF) for three consecutive years from 2015 to 2017. Additionally, he secured the coveted Mr. Universe title in 2014, making him an international sensation. Wasim Khan’s remarkable journey demonstrates that Indian bodybuilders can excel on the global stage, showcasing their dedication and talent to the world.
7. Thakur Anoop Singh: The Versatile Athlete
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Birthdate: 23 March 1989 (Age: 34)
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Birthplace: Pune, Maharashtra, India
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Nationality: Indian
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Occupations: Actor, athlete, bodybuilder, playback singer
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Years active: 2011–present
Thakur Anoop Singh’s versatility knows no bounds. He seamlessly juggles between being an actor and a bodybuilder. His athletic prowess was on full display when he clinched a gold medal at the WBPF World Bodybuilding Championship in 2015, competing in the Men’s Fitness Physique category. Thakur Anoop Singh’s journey from the world of bodybuilding to the entertainment industry is a testament to his multi-faceted talents and indomitable spirit.
8. Amit Chhetri: Uttarakhand’s Hercules
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Age: 29 Years
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Height: 5 ft 10 in
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On Season Weight: 100 KG
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Nationality: Indian
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Current City: Haridwar
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Profession: A Constable of Uttarakhand Police
Achievements:
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Gold Medal in Mr. India Federation Cup at Tamil Nadu in 2007
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Silver Medal in Open Senior Mr. India in 2012
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Champion of Champions for Federation cup 2013
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Gold in the Fairfax World Police and Fire Games 2015
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Mr. India 2016
Amit Chhetri, known as the Arnold Schwarzenegger of India, claimed the Mr. India title in 2016 in the 100 kg category. His journey from Haridwar, Uttarakhand, to becoming a bodybuilding champion is an inspirational tale. Amit showcased his prowess on the global stage by winning the gold medal at the Fairfax World Police and Fire Games in 2015, where he triumphed over competitors from 90 different countries.
9. Varinder Singh Ghuman: The Veg Powerhouse
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Born: 1983/1984 (age 39–40)
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Nationality: Indian
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Occupation: Bodybuilder, Wrestler, Actor, Businessman
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Known for: Kabaddi Once Again (2012), Roar: Tigers of the Sundarbans (2014), Marjaavaan (2019)
Varinder Singh Ghuman, one of the world’s few vegetarian bodybuilders, has made Punjab proud. His journey includes winning the Mr. India title in 2009 and earning the distinction of being the first Indian to receive a Pro Card from the International Federation of Body Building. Beyond bodybuilding, Varinder has ventured into acting, featuring in both Punjabi and Bollywood films. His association with Hollywood superstar Arnold Schwarzenegger for the promotion of health and fitness supplements further underscores his achievements.
10. Ankur Sharma: Rising Star of Chandigarh
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Name: Ankur Sharma
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Height: 6.2 feet
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Age: 43 Years
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Weight: 85 Kg
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Birthplace: Haryana, India
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Nationality: Indian
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Religion: Hinduism
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Profession: Bodybuilder & Youtuber
Ankur Sharma, hailing from Chandigarh, is among the emerging stars of Indian bodybuilding. He claimed the Mr. Universe title in 2009 and hasn’t looked back since. His victory at the WBPF World Championship in 2013 and triumph as Mr. Asia further cement his status as a rising star in Indian bodybuilding.
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In conclusion, these Indian bodybuilders have transcended physical limitations and societal norms to sculpt their legendary careers in iron. Their journeys are a testament to unyielding determination, relentless discipline, and an unwavering passion for the sport. As they continue to inspire and pave the way for future generations, it’s clear that Indian bodybuilding is on an upward trajectory, poised for even greater achievements on the global stage.
