Who was Varinder Singh Ghuman who passed away? World's first vegetarian bodybuilder to being Salman Khan's co-star, here's all you need to know about him

Punjabi actor and bodybuilder Varinder Singh Ghuman passed away on Thursday due to a cardiac arrest. The news of his death led to shock waves. He breathed his last at the age of 47 and his nephew confirmed the reason of his death. Varinder's family said that he passed away following a heart attack on Thursday, his family has said. Varinder’s nephew, Amanjot Singh Ghuman, told reporters in Jalandhar that he suffered a cardiac arrest in the hospital around 5 pm.

Further, the report according to PTI added that Ghuman's manager, Yadvinder Singh, said that Varinder was experiencing shoulder pain, and to get the same checked, he went to a private hospital in Amritsar. Here's all you need to know about Varinder as fans mourn his demise and offer condolences.

Born in Punjab, Mr Asia runner-up

Ghuman was born in Gurdasput, Punjab and he wearned the title of Mr India in 2009. Later he went on to become a runner-up at Mr Asia and established himself as one of India's biggest names in professional bodybuilding. He was once chosen by Arnold Schwarzenegger as a brand ambassador to promote his products in Asia.

World's first vegetarian bodybuilder

What set him apart was his commitment to vegetarianism. Ghuman was widely recognised as the world’s first vegetarian professional bodybuilder, a distinction that became a source of pride for India’s fitness community.

Turned to acting

After making a name for himself as a bodybuilder, Ghuman turned to acting. He made his film debut with 'Kabaddi Once Again' in 2012, followed by appearances in 'Roar: Tigers of the Sundarbans (2014)' and 'Marjaavaan (2019)'. In 2023, he appeared alongside Salman Khan in 'Tiger 3' which got him more recognition.

Real-life inspiration through social media

Off-screen, Ghuman was a devoted fitness advocate who regularly shared workout routines and motivational posts with his followers. His Instagram community of over a million admirers reflected the reach of his influence. To many young fitness aspirants, he was not just a bodybuilder but a mentor who proved that ethical choices and athletic excellence could coexist.


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