Bodybuilder Varinder Singh Ghuman, who played a key role in Salman Khan's 'Tiger 3', dies of a heart attack

Entertainment News: Varinder Singh Ghuman, the international bodybuilder and Punjabi actor, passed away on Tuesday evening in Amritsar. He was only 42 years old. According to doctors, he had come for a simple surgery on his biceps. It was supposed to be a minor procedure, and he was expected to go back home the same day. But during the operation, he suffered a sudden cardiac arrest. Despite the best efforts of doctors, he could not be revived. The shocking news spread quickly across Punjab and the fitness world.

Known as India’s He-Man

Ghuman was born in Gurdaspur and later settled in Jalandhar. He was widely known as the “He-Man of India” because of his extraordinary physique. He was also famous worldwide as the first vegetarian professional bodybuilder. His diet, free from meat, challenged the common belief that bodybuilding requires heavy non-vegetarian food. His tall figure and powerful body inspired countless youngsters to join gyms and adopt a healthy lifestyle. Fans across India and abroad admired his discipline and achievements.

Rise from Punjab to global stage

Varinder’s bodybuilding journey began under his mentor Randhir Hastir. In 2009, he won the Mr. India title and later finished second in the Asian Championship. His big moment came in 2013 at the Arnold Classic Championship, where Hollywood icon Arnold Schwarzenegger recognized his talent. Schwarzenegger invited him to be the brand face of his fitness products in Asia. This achievement made Ghuman an international star. He also earned the prestigious IFBB Pro card and represented India at global bodybuilding competitions.

Bollywood and Punjabi films

Ghuman also made his mark in films. He played the lead in the Punjabi movie Kabaddi Once Again in 2012, showcasing his physical strength. His Bollywood debut came in 2014 with Roar: Tigers of the Sundarbans. Later, he appeared in Marjaavaan (2019). But his most memorable role was in Salman Khan’s blockbuster Tiger 3 in 2023. In the YRF Spy Universe film, he played Shakeel, a Pakistani prison guard, impressing audiences with his muscular look and powerful screen presence alongside Salman Khan and Katrina Kaif.

Tragic end during minor surgery

On Tuesday, Varinder traveled alone from Jalandhar to Amritsar for treatment of a minor bicep injury. Doctors assured that it was a simple procedure. However, fate had other plans. During the operation at Fortis Hospital, his heart suddenly stopped. Emergency measures failed, and he was declared dead. His family was informed immediately. The hospital corridors soon filled with relatives, fans, and fellow bodybuilders mourning his untimely death. His passing has left a void in the fitness and film industry.

Legacy of inspiration

Varinder Ghuman’s story was one of determination and courage. From small-town Punjab to international fame, he showed that discipline and hard work can overcome every obstacle. His vegetarian lifestyle broke stereotypes in bodybuilding and inspired a generation to rethink fitness diets. His contribution to cinema, alongside his international recognition, cemented his place as a true legend. The world of bodybuilding, Punjabi cinema, and Bollywood will always remember him as a pathbreaker who lived life on his own terms.

Tributes pour in across India

Soon after the news, social media was flooded with tributes from fans, friends, and celebrities. Fellow actors and athletes called his death a huge loss. Fitness trainers described him as a mentor who motivated young athletes with kindness and guidance. His co-stars remembered his humility despite his global fame. People from Punjab to Mumbai are mourning a man who carried India’s name with pride on the international stage. Though gone too soon, Varinder Singh Ghuman’s legacy will continue to inspire future generations.