A Sudden Goodbye That Shook the Fitness and Film World
It’s never easy to say goodbye to someone who inspired thousands with strength, discipline, and humility. On October 9, 2025, India lost one of its most iconic bodybuilders and actors—Varinder Ghuman—to a sudden cardiac arrest during treatment at Fortis Hospital in Amritsar. He was undergoing a minor bicep surgery and was expected to return home the same day. But fate had other plans.
Known for his towering physique and gentle demeanor, Varinder Ghuman was more than just a celebrity—he was a symbol of perseverance, a pioneer in Indian bodybuilding, and a beloved figure in Punjabi and Hindi cinema. His untimely death has left fans, fellow athletes, and the film fraternity in deep sorrow.
Who Was Varinder Ghuman?
Varinder Ghuman was born in Gurdaspur, Punjab, and later settled in Jalandhar to pursue bodybuilding under the guidance of Randhir Hastir. Standing at 6 feet 3 inches and competing in the 120 kg-plus category, he quickly rose to fame after winning the Mr India title in 2009 and finishing second in the Mr Asia competition the same year.
He made history as the first Indian bodybuilder to receive an IFBB Pro card, and in 2013, he was handpicked by Arnold Schwarzenegger to represent his health supplement brand in Asia. Schwarzenegger once called him “an amazing talent,” and Ghuman proudly embraced the title of India’s first vegetarian professional bodybuilder.
Varinder Ghuman’s Journey in Cinema
Beyond the stage and gym, Varinder Ghuman made a strong impact in the film industry. His debut came in 2012 with the Punjabi film Kabaddi Once Again, where he played the lead role. His imposing presence and natural charisma soon led him to Bollywood, where he appeared in:
- Roar: Tigers of the Sundarbans (2014)
- Marjaavaan (2019)
- Tiger 3 (2023), where he played Shakeel, a Pakistani prison guard alongside Salman Khan and Katrina Kaif
His performances were appreciated for their authenticity and screen presence, proving that he was more than just a bodybuilder—he was a versatile performer.
The Final Days and Sudden Tragedy
On October 8, just a day before his passing, Varinder Ghuman mourned the death of Punjabi singer Rajvir Jawanda on Instagram, writing, “RIP Brother Punjab ate punjabi music industry nu bhut vada ghata hai, Waheguru Pariwar nu bal bakshe.” The heartfelt message now feels hauntingly prophetic.
The next day, while undergoing a routine procedure for a muscle rupture, he suffered a cardiac arrest and passed away unexpectedly. Family members have raised concerns about the treatment sequence, and while doctors attribute the death to natural cardiac complications, a formal inquiry may follow.
Tributes Pour In
From fitness enthusiasts to film stars, tributes have flooded social media. Union Minister Ravneet Singh Bittu called him “The He-Man of India” and said, “His life will always be a source of inspiration for the youth.” Deputy CM Sukhjinder Singh Randhawa added, “He brought pride to Punjab across the world.”
Fans described him as a “gentle giant” who remained humble despite his global fame. His last social media post has now become a symbol of his compassionate nature and deep connection to his roots.
Legacy of Discipline and Veganism
One of the most unique aspects of Varinder Ghuman’s journey was his commitment to a vegan lifestyle—a rarity in the bodybuilding world. He often spoke about the benefits of plant-based nutrition and advocated for natural bodybuilding. His discipline, clean living, and dedication to fitness made him a role model for aspiring athletes.
He also owned a gym in Jalandhar and frequently shared workout videos, motivational messages, and fitness tips to inspire the youth of Punjab and beyond.
Final Thoughts
Varinder Ghuman was not just a man of muscle—he was a man of heart. His journey from a small town in Punjab to international bodybuilding stages and Bollywood screens is a testament to what discipline, passion, and humility can achieve. His sudden death is a painful reminder of life’s unpredictability, but his legacy will continue to inspire generations.
Disclaimer: This article is based on publicly available information as of October 2025. Details regarding medical treatment and cause of death are subject to official confirmation. For the latest updates, please refer to verified news sources and family statements.
