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First Indian To Win Mr Universe, Manohar Aich, Dies At 104 Leaving Behind A Legacy

byDisha Seth
6th June 2016
2 minute read

Manohar Aich, name that will resound in Indian history forever. This 4ft 11inch wonder took his last breathe on Sunday afternoon and said goodbye to the world that bestowed him with the title ‘Pocket Hercules’.

Manohar Aich, who became the first Indian to win the title of Mr Universe in 1952, succumbed to age related complications on 5th June 2016.

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He was on a liquid diet for 10-15 days before he passed away. This Kolkata resident’s journey from a coconut vendor to a world icon was extremely inspirational.

 

He started off as a physical trainer in the Air Force in 1942 and even spend some time detained during the freedom struggle.

“It was 1942 and the Quit India movement had gathered considerable momentum. I had been working as a physical instructor in the Royal Indian Air Force, when I protested against the British oppression at the camp. I slapped a British officer, who made an offensive remark against the Indians during the interrogation. A court-martial and jail time ensued but it turned out to be a blessing in disguise. The jailor had been very kind and allowed me to train. In fact, he encouraged it. Then, I was shifted to the Alipore Presidency Jail but release followed as India won her freedom. I decided to settle in Kolkata.” recounted Manohar in an interview with The Indian Express.

 

Manohar then went on to be a Coconut vendor while he kept his passion alive by practicing in an Akhara

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He kept at his physical training at Jogeshwar Paul’s akhara everyday. Even though he had to go to and sell coconuts at Sealdah Station.

 

He conducted private bodybuilding shows to pay for his passage to England to attend the Mr Universe contest in 1951.

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Even though he didn’t manage to win in that year, he stayed put. “I had a failed attempt in 1951 but decided to stay back in London, for I was determined to win it next term. Thankfully, I got a job in the British Rail which helped me live my dream. I returned home only after winning the 1952 competition,” Aich recalled in an interview with The Indian Express.

 

He won the title of Mr Universe in 1952 and went on to win the Asian Body Building Championship.

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Making him the first Indian to win this contest! He believed that “Our body is a temple that we must worship. Exercise is the only way to stay healthy.” And so he lived by it.

 

At 100, he suffered a heart attack and stopped gymming but his wrinkled muscles were still just as strong.

Now even though he is no longer with us, he’s given us enough reasons to remember him and strive to be like him. His students, Mr Universe Premchand Dogra and 8-time national body building champion, Satya Paul are going to carry his legacy.

He was a strong man with a fierce passion and it’s time we learn from him. 

News Source: The Indian Express

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