Tragic end for India's vegetarian bodybuilder Varinder Singh Ghuman at 43 | Achievements and career highlights

PTC Web Desk: India’s renowned vegetarian bodybuilder and actor Varinder Ghuman has passed away at the age of 43. According to reports, Ghuman suffered two heart attacks during a surgery at a Fortis hospital, which led to his untimely death. Standing tall at 6.2 feet and weighing around 140 kg, Varinder Ghuman’s extraordinary physique made him one of India’s most recognisable fitness icons.

Widely known as “The He-Man of India,” he rose to fame in the bodybuilding world after winning the Mr India title in 2009 and securing the runner-up position at the Mr Asia competition.

From bodybuilding to Silver Screen

Varinder Ghuman successfully transitioned from bodybuilding to acting, featuring in Punjabi films as well as Bollywood. He appeared alongside Salman Khan in the blockbuster film 'Tiger 3'. Beyond fitness and acting, Ghuman was known for his love of cars and tattoos, often flaunting his stylish collection and body art.

Born on December 28, 1982, in Talwandi, Gurdaspur district of Punjab, Ghuman spent his early years in his hometown before moving to Jalandhar with his family. He completed his higher education at Lyallpur Khalsa College, Jalandhar, where he earned an MBA degree. Later, he pursued a dance and acting course in Mumbai to refine his performance skills.

A journey shaped by destiny

As a schoolboy, Varinder was known for his tall frame and athletic build. Initially, he aspired to become a cricketer and played as a fast bowler in his school team. However, his father, Bhupinder Singh, a retired ASI from Punjab Police, wanted him to join the police force and encouraged him to focus on athletics. Life, however, had other plans. Ghuman eventually found his calling in bodybuilding, where he went on to bring global recognition to India.

Varinder Ghuman was reportedly building a new luxurious house on Mithapur Road, Jalandhar, where he was planning to move in with his family this Diwali. However, due to a vein-related issue, he was admitted to Fortis Hospital for a minor operation. The surgery was expected to be routine, and he was supposed to be discharged the same day. Unfortunately, he suffered two heart attacks during the procedure, leading to his death.

Ghuman was a tattoo enthusiast. He had a snake tattoo on his right arm and the sacred ‘Onkar’ symbol on the middle finger of his left hand. These tattoos held personal meaning for him. After every competition victory, he would proudly display both tattoos as a symbol of his faith and strength.

Despite his massive frame, Ghuman was a pure vegetarian, earning him admiration in both the fitness and bodybuilding communities for breaking stereotypes about diet and strength.

Achievements and career highlights

2005: Won the Mr. Jalandhar and Mr. Punjab titles

2009: Crowned Mr. India

2010: Secured the second position in the Mr. Asia contest

Acted in several Punjabi and Hindi films, including Tiger 3

Apart from his career in fitness and films, Ghuman also ventured into dairy farming, a business he managed alongside his professional commitments. His passion for automobiles was evident in his impressive collection, which included a Toyota Fortuner, Chevrolet Cruze, Hyundai Verna, Range Rover, and a Harley-Davidson motorcycle.

Varinder Ghuman is survived by his wife, one daughter, and two sons. His mother passed away in 2009, while his father, Bhupinder Singh, continues to live in Punjab.