International bodybuilder Varinder Singh Ghuman’s family marked his first death anniversary on October 9 at a gurdwara in Model Town, Jalandhar. Cabinet Minister Mohinder Bhagat and other political leaders attended the commemorative gathering and expressed their condolences to the family.
Ghuman, popularly known as ‘The He-Man of India’, died on October 9, 2025, following a cardiac arrest at Fortis Hospital in Amritsar. His family had alleged medical negligence in connection with his death, and the case remains under legal proceedings.
Family seeks justice, brother appeals to CM Bhagwant Mann
Speaking to the media during the anniversary gathering, Ghuman’s brother, Rabbi Bajwa, said the family’s primary demand since his brother’s death had been justice. He said the government had extended considerable support to the family but urged Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann to personally oversee the case.
Rabbi alleged that some leaders were attempting to get the case closed. He also claimed that doctors had been pressured by gangster elements in an alleged attempt to suppress the matter. These allegations were made by the family and could not be independently verified from the information available.
Family claims hospital offered crores, says it refused
Rabbi Bajwa claimed that the hospital had offered the family crores of rupees, but they rejected the offer. He maintained that the family was seeking justice rather than financial compensation.
He also said the family hoped those accused in the case would be brought back behind bars. According to him, an FIR had been registered and the accused were currently out on bail.
The family plans to continue commemorating Ghuman’s death anniversary through gatherings and fairs, with an emphasis on public welfare activities.
Cabinet minister pays tribute to Ghuman
Cabinet Minister Mohinder Bhagat attended the gathering to share the family’s grief. He said Ghuman had brought recognition to Punjab and Jalandhar through his achievements in bodybuilding.
Ghuman was widely recognised for promoting a drug-free lifestyle among young people and inspiring aspiring bodybuilders.
What happened before Varinder Ghuman’s death?
Ghuman had reportedly gone to Fortis Hospital in Amritsar for a minor operation on his arm. He left his home in Basti Sheikh, Jalandhar, alone, as the procedure was expected to be minor and he was supposed to return the same day.
However, he suffered a cardiac arrest and died at the hospital. Following his death, the family raised allegations of medical negligence, leading to a legal case that remains ongoing.
A legacy in bodybuilding
Ghuman won the Mr India title in 2009 and became known internationally as a professional bodybuilder, actor and dairy farmer. He was also widely described as one of the world’s first professional bodybuilders to follow a strictly vegetarian diet.
His achievements made him a prominent figure in Indian bodybuilding, while his message encouraging young people to stay away from drugs remains part of his legacy.
As the family marks a year since his death, it continues to seek accountability through the ongoing legal process.