Varinder Singh Ghuman's Death: Who Was This Vegetarian Bodybuilder?

By Oneindia Desk

Updated: Friday, October 10, 2025, 13:09 [IST]

Varinder Singh Ghuman, the celebrated Punjabi actor and professional bodybuilder known as "India's Arnold Schwarzenegger," passed away on Thursday due to cardiac arrest. He was 47.

Sudden Demise Shocks Fitness Community

Ghuman reportedly suffered a heart attack around 5 PM while receiving treatment at a private hospital in Amritsar. Earlier that day, he had complained of shoulder pain and sought medical attention, according to his manager Yadvinder Singh. His nephew, Amanjot Singh Ghuman, confirmed the news, leaving fans and fellow athletes in mourning.

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Varinder Singh Ghuman, the renowned Punjabi actor and professional bodybuilder, also known as India's Arnold Schwarzenegger, died on Thursday at 47 from a cardiac arrest in Amritsar after experiencing shoulder pain. Ghuman, a vegetarian, won the Mr. India title in 2009 and was chosen by Arnold Schwarzenegger to represent his fitness brand in Asia; he also acted in films such as 'Kabaddi Once Again,' 'Roar: Tigers of the Sundarbans,' 'Marjaavaan,' and 'Tiger 3'.

Varinder Singh Ghuman s Death Who Was This Vegetarian Bodybuilder

Who was Varinder Singh Ghuman?

Ghuman, boy from Gurdaspur, rose to prominence by winning the Mr India title in 2009 and finishing as runner-up at the Mr Asia competition. His achievements earned him international recognition, and Arnold Schwarzenegger personally selected him to represent his fitness brand in Asia.

Champion of Vegetarian Fitness

What truly set Ghuman apart was his unwavering commitment to vegetarianism. In a field dominated by meat-heavy diets, he proved that strength and muscle could be built ethically, becoming the world's first vegetarian professional bodybuilder - a milestone that inspired countless others.

From Gym to Silver Screen

Ghuman transitioned into acting with the Punjabi film Kabaddi Once Again (2012), followed by roles in Bollywood hits like Roar: Tigers of the Sundarbans (2014), Marjaavaan (2019), and Tiger 3 (2023), where he starred alongside Salman Khan.
🙌 A Mentor and Social Media Motivator

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A post shared by Varinder Singh Ghuman (@veervarindersinghghuman)

Beyond his physical prowess, Ghuman was admired for his humility and motivational presence online. With over a million Instagram followers, he regularly shared workout tips, diet advice, and messages promoting discipline and perseverance.

Varinder Singh Ghuman leaves behind a legacy that transcends bodybuilding and cinema. He was a symbol of ethical strength, a pioneer for vegetarian athletes, and a guiding light for aspiring fitness enthusiasts. His impact will continue to resonate through the lives he touched and the standards he set.