Varinder Singh Ghuman, a celebrated Indian bodybuilder and actor, has died at the age of 42. Ghuman passed away on October 9, 2025, in Amritsar, reportedly due to a heart attack.
Ghuman was in Amritsar's Fortis Hospital for a minor operation related to a bicep injury. He was expected to be discharged the same day, but he suffered a cardiac arrest during the procedure. Despite doctors' efforts, he could not be revived. His family has confirmed that a heart attack was the cause of death. According to a PTI report, Ghuman's nephew, Amanjot Singh Ghuman, told reporters that his uncle suffered a cardiac arrest in the hospital around 5 p.m. Ghuman's manager, Yadvinder Singh, stated that Varinder had been experiencing shoulder pain and went to the hospital to get it checked.
Born in 1983 in Gurdaspur, Punjab, Varinder Singh Ghuman rose to prominence in the world of bodybuilding. He won the Mr. India title in 2009 and was the runner-up in the Mr. Asia competition. In 2013, he was chosen by Arnold Schwarzenegger to represent his health products in Asia. Ghuman was also the first Indian bodybuilder to secure an IFBB pro card. He was widely recognized as the world's first vegetarian professional bodybuilder.
Ghuman transitioned to acting, making his debut in the 2012 Punjabi film Kabaddi Once Again. He later appeared in Bollywood films such as Roar: Tigers of the Sundarbans (2014) and Marjaavaan (2019). He was last seen in Tiger 3 (2023), alongside Salman Khan. In Tiger 3, Ghuman played the role of a Pakistani soldier.
Ghuman's death has been met with shock and sadness by fans, colleagues, and political figures. Many have expressed their condolences and appreciation for his contributions to the fitness and entertainment industries. Union Minister of State for Railways and Food Processing Industries, Ravneet Singh Bittu, mourned the loss, calling Ghuman "The He-Man of India" and praising his dedication to fitness and his vegetarian lifestyle. Sukhjinder Singh Randhawa, former Deputy Chief Minister of Punjab, also expressed his sorrow, recognizing Ghuman's hard work and talent.
Varinder Singh Ghuman's legacy extends beyond his bodybuilding achievements and film roles. He inspired many with his commitment to fitness, his vegetarian lifestyle, and his success in both sports and entertainment.
