Bodybuilding
Top Indian Bodybuilders: A Historical Overview
Indian bodybuilding has a rich and storied history, with numerous athletes achieving significant milestones both nationally and internationally. This article provides an overview of some of the most influential figures in Indian bodybuilding, highlighting their achievements and contributions to the sport.
Premchand Degra: A Pioneering Force
Premchand Degra stands out as a pioneering force in Indian bodybuilding. He is a nine-time Mr. India champion and an eight-time Mr. Asia champion. Degra's crowning achievement came in 1988 when he won the Mr. Universe title, making him the last Indian to secure this prestigious accolade until Hira Lal's victory years later. He was also the first Indian to earn an IFBB Pro card and competed in the 1988 Mr. Olympia. For his contributions to sports, Degra was awarded the Arjuna Award and the Padma Shri Award.
Suhas Khamkar: A Dominant National Champion
Suhas Khamkar has established himself as a dominant force in Indian bodybuilding, particularly at the national level. He is a ten-time Mr. India champion and has claimed the Mr. Maharashtra title eight times. Khamkar's achievements have significantly contributed to the popularity and recognition of bodybuilding in India.
Emerging Stars and International Competitors
Several Indian bodybuilders have made their mark on the international stage in recent years. Sangram Chougule is a two-time Mr. World champion and has won six consecutive Mr. India titles, with his last competition taking place in 2015. Bhuwan Chauhan has emerged as a prominent figure by becoming the first Indian to win an IFBB Pro show, securing six victories in total, and achieving his best Olympia finish with a 15th place in 2020.
Another notable competitor is Thakur Anoop Singh, who won gold at the 2015 Mr. World and silver at the Mr. India competition the same year. Ashish Sakharkar has also made significant strides, winning the Mr. India title four times.
Veterans and Their Enduring Legacies
Veteran bodybuilders have left a lasting legacy in the sport. Mukesh Gehlot is a four-time Mr. India champion, having won titles in 2008, 2009, 2010, and 2012. Rajendran Mani is renowned for his extensive list of accolades, including five Mr. World titles and 14 Mr. India titles. Arambam Boby has secured three Mr. South Asia titles, while Kumar has won the Mr. Asia title and ten Mr. Services titles.
Wasim Khan, a 13-time Mr. Delhi champion, has also claimed the Mr. India title five times. Amit Chhetri, known for his victory at the 2007 Mr. India Federation Cup, has won gold at the 2013 Sheru Classic and the 2015 Fairfax World Police Games.
Prashant Salunkhe, with eight Mr. India titles, and Hira Lal, who won Mr. Universe after a long wait since Degra's victory, continue to inspire future generations of bodybuilders.
Global Competitions and Muscle Beach Culture
Indian bodybuilders have participated in global competitions, earning accolades and recognition. Arshan Khan's recent victory at the World Bodybuilding & Physique Sports Championship 2025 in Indonesia, where he won gold in the over 100-kg category, highlights India's growing presence on the international stage.
Muscle Beach in California, known for its rich history in the bodybuilding community, remains a popular destination for bodybuilders worldwide. The iconic location has been a hub for bodybuilding enthusiasts for decades, offering outdoor gym equipment and a beachfront setting where athletes gather to train and showcase their skills.
“Bodybuilding is not just about building muscles; it's about building character.” - Unknown
As the culture of bodybuilding continues to thrive, both in India and globally, these athletes serve as role models and inspirations for aspiring bodybuilders, demonstrating the dedication and passion required to excel in the sport.