Renowned Indian bodybuilder and actor Varinder Singh Ghuman passed away on Thursday (October 9) following a heart attack at the age of 42. The news came as a shock to his fans and colleagues from the film and fitness world.On Friday, Salman Khan took to social media to express his grief and shared a heartfelt post mourning the loss of his Tiger 3 co-star. Sharing a picture with Varinder from the sets of Dabangg, where Salman can be seen in his iconic police uniform with ‘Chulbul Panday’ on the tag, the superstar wrote, “Rest in peace praa. Vil miss paaji.” The picture captured the duo smiling for the camera, with Varinder flashing a thumbs-up.
Varinder’s final moments
According to Varinder’s manager, Yadvinder Singh, the actor had visited a private hospital in Amritsar after experiencing shoulder pain. However, he later suffered a heart attack at the hospital, as confirmed by his nephew Amanjot Singh Ghuman to PTI.
From Mr India to the big screen
Born in Gurdaspur, Punjab, Varinder made his mark in bodybuilding after winning the Mr India title in 2009 and securing second place in Mr Asia. Known as the world’s first vegetarian professional bodybuilder, he made history by becoming the first Indian to earn an IFBB pro card. His achievements drew international attention — even Arnold Schwarzenegger recognized his potential and appointed him as a brand ambassador to promote health products across Asia.
Bollywood and beyond
Varinder made his Punjabi film debut in 2012 with Kabaddi Once Again, followed by roles in Hindi films like Roar: Tigers of the Sundarbans (2014), Marjaavaan (2019), and Tiger 3 (2023). His towering presence and discipline made him a natural fit for screen roles, and fans were thrilled to see him alongside Salman Khan in Tiger 3.
Condolences pour in
Former Deputy Chief Minister of Punjab and MP Sukhjinder Singh Randhawa paid tribute on X, writing, “Hearing the news of the sudden demise of Punjab’s famous bodybuilder and actor Virender Singh Ghuman ji has left my heart very saddened. With his hard work, discipline, and ability, he illuminated Punjab’s name across the world. May Waheguru ji grant his soul eternal abode and give strength to the family to bear this sorrowful blow.” With over one million Instagram followers, Varinder frequently inspired his fans with fitness content and motivational posts. He was also preparing to enter public life, having expressed his intention to contest the Punjab Assembly elections in 2027.
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