104-year-old bodybuilder Manohar Aich, who was once a household name in Bengal after becoming India’s first Mr Universe in 1952, died at his Baguiati residence yesterday. We take a look at 8 things about him:
1) Aich was India’s first Mr Universe when he won the 1952 National Amateur Body-Builders’ Association Universe Championships. At 4ft 11in, he towered over the rest to earn the sobriquet ‘Pocket Hercules’.
2) He had a failed attempt in 1951 but decided to stay back in London. He got a job in the British Rail which helped him live his dream.
3) Encouraged by English officer Reub Martin, Aich took up bodybuilding and made this his passion during his stint at the Royal Air Force under British colonial rulers.
4) He also went on to serve jail term when some years later he protested against colonial oppression, something which Aich considered as “turning point” in his life.
5) He is survived by two daughters and two sons, one of whom manages a gym and fitness centre to fulfill his father’s dream of making the youth “healthy and strong”.
6) “Never quit exercise. His mantra to stay healthy was simple — healthy eating and exercise,” his son said.
7) Before turning into a world acclaim, he was a coconut vendor at Sealdah station.
8) Aich briefly flirted with politics as well, when BJP came calling during the 1997 general elections. He lost that contest.
(With inputs from PTI & Indian Express)