The Indian fitness and film communities are mourning the sudden loss of Varinder Singh Ghuman, a pioneering bodybuilder and actor who passed away on Thursday, October 9, 2025, at the age of 42. The Mr. India titleholder suffered a fatal heart attack while undergoing treatment at Fortis Hospital in Amritsar, according to statements from his family and manager.
Ghuman, often called the “He-Man of India,” was widely recognized as the world’s first vegetarian professional bodybuilder, breaking stereotypes about plant-based nutrition and muscle building. His unexpected death has sent shockwaves through the sports and entertainment industries, prompting an outpouring of tributes from colleagues, politicians, and countless fans he inspired.
A Titan of Indian Bodybuilding
Varinder Singh Ghuman’s rise to fitness fame began in his native Punjab, where he was born in Gurdaspur. Standing at an impressive 6 feet 2 inches and maintaining a weight of around 130 kg, his physical presence was commanding, but it was his discipline and dedication that truly set him apart.
His career reached new heights in 2009 when he clinched the coveted Mr. India title and secured second place in the Mr. Asia competition. These victories established him as a force in professional bodybuilding and paved the way for his groundbreaking achievement of becoming the first Indian bodybuilder to secure an IFBB pro card.
What made Varinder Singh Ghuman truly unique was his unwavering commitment to vegetarianism in a sport where animal-based proteins have traditionally dominated. He proudly embraced the title of “vegetarian bodybuilder,” proving that exceptional physique development was possible on a plant-based diet.
Beyond the Gym: A Silver Screen Presence
After conquering the bodybuilding stage, Varinder Singh Ghuman successfully transitioned to acting, bringing his formidable screen presence to both Punjabi and Hindi cinema.
His film journey began with the 2012 Punjabi movie “Kabaddi Once Again,” where he played the lead role of Shingara Singh. He later made his Bollywood debut in “Roar: Tigers of the Sundarbans” (2014) and appeared in “Marjaavaan” (2019) alongside Sidharth Malhotra.
Most recently, audiences saw him in the 2023 blockbuster “Tiger 3,” where he shared the screen with Salman Khan. His performance as Shakeel, a Pakistani prison guard, introduced him to a wider audience and showcased his growing acting range.
The Final Hours: A Sudden Tragedy
Ghuman’s passing came unexpectedly during what should have been a routine medical procedure. His manager, Yadvinder Singh, explained that the bodybuilder had visited the hospital seeking treatment for shoulder pain, which was later revealed to be connected to a bicep injury.
“He was experiencing shoulder pain and had gone to a private hospital in Amritsar for treatment,” Singh told reporters. The procedure was described as a minor operation, and Ghuman was expected to return home the same day.
Tragically, during his treatment, Ghuman suffered a sudden cardiac arrest around 5:30 PM. Despite immediate medical intervention, doctors could not revive him. His nephew, Amanjot Singh Ghuman, confirmed the devastating news to reporters in Jalandhar.
A Legacy of Discipline and Inspiration
Beyond his competitive and acting achievements, Ghuman maintained an active presence as a fitness influencer and entrepreneur. He owned a gym in Jalandhar, where he resided, and regularly shared workout videos and motivational content with his over 1 million Instagram followers.
His influence extended beyond fitness, as he had expressed interest in entering politics and potentially contesting the Punjab assembly elections in 2027.
The news of his passing prompted immediate tributes from across India. Union minister Ravneet Singh Bittu called Ghuman the “pride of Punjab” and described his death as an “irreparable loss for the country”.
“Passing away of the pride of Punjab, ‘the He-Man of India’, Varinder Ghuman ji, is an irreparable loss for the country,” Bittu wrote on X. “He set new standards in the world of fitness with his hard work and vegetarian lifestyle. His life will always be a source of inspiration for the youth”.
Congress MP Sukhjinder Singh Randhawa also expressed grief, noting that Ghuman “brought glory to Punjab with his hard work, discipline, and talent”.
Frequently Asked Questions
How did Varinder Singh Ghuman die?
Varinder Singh Ghuman died from a heart attack on October 9, 2025, while undergoing treatment for a shoulder injury at Fortis Hospital in Amritsar. He suffered cardiac arrest during the procedure.
What was Varinder Singh Ghuman’s age?
Ghuman was 42 years old at the time of his passing. He was born in 1983.
Why was Varinder Singh Ghuman famous?
He was best known for winning Mr. India in 2009, becoming the first Indian bodybuilder to earn an IFBB pro card, and being recognized as the world’s first professional vegetarian bodybuilder. He also appeared in several films, including “Tiger 3” with Salman Khan.
Was Varinder Singh Ghuman married?
The search results do not contain information about Ghuman’s marital status or wife. This suggests he kept his personal life private.
What made Ghuman unique in the bodybuilding world?
Ghuman broke industry stereotypes by maintaining a professional-level physique while following a strict vegetarian diet, proving that animal proteins were not essential for achieving bodybuilding excellence.
A Final Rep
Varinder Singh Ghuman’s untimely passing represents a significant loss to fitness enthusiasts, the Indian film industry, and countless young people who saw in him a living example of how discipline and ethical choices could coexist with exceptional achievement.
His journey from Gurdaspur to the international bodybuilding stage and Bollywood screens demonstrated that strength comes in many forms—not just in muscular development, but in commitment to one’s principles. As the fitness community grapples with this sudden loss, Ghuman’s legacy as a pioneer who redefined what was possible for vegetarian athletes continues to inspire.
For those looking to honor Ghuman’s memory, consider sharing his story or supporting the values he championed—whether through embracing a healthier lifestyle, exploring plant-based nutrition, or simply encouraging others in their fitness journeys, as he so often did.
