Amit Bhatia felicitates champions; championship promotes fitness, discipline and a drug-free lifestyle among Himachal’s youth
Munish Sood
Manali
Strength, sporting discipline and a passion for fitness took centre stage at Manali as Mr. Himalaya 2026 brought together bodybuilding talent from different categories, offering a competitive platform to emerging athletes and fitness enthusiasts.
The championship witnessed intense competition among male and female participants, who showcased their physique, muscular conditioning, strength and dedication to the sport. Beyond the competition, the event carried a larger message of encouraging young people to adopt fitness as a way of life and stay away from substance abuse.
Chief Guest Amit Bhatia felicitated the winners and participants, appreciating their commitment, hard work and discipline. He emphasised that sporting platforms such as Mr. Himalaya were important in channelising youthful energy towards constructive pursuits and creating awareness about the harmful effects of drug abuse.
He said Himachal Pradesh needed more such initiatives to identify and nurture sporting talent while providing young athletes with opportunities to showcase their abilities. Bhatia also assured his continued support for future editions and similar fitness initiatives, calling for collective participation from society, sponsors and institutions to strengthen the sporting culture in the state.
In the competition results, Sharik secured the coveted overall bodybuilding title. Anjali clinched the gold medal in women’s bodybuilding, while Charu of Manali emerged winner in women’s physique. Aneesh from Sundernagar won the classic bodybuilding category, and Gaurav claimed the men’s physique overall title.
The standard of competition was assessed by an experienced judging panel comprising prominent names from the bodybuilding and fitness fraternity. The panel included Harry Thakur, a nine-time Mr. Himachal; fitness influencer Shandy; Ravi, Mr. Kolkata 2000; and Ronny Mehta, Mr. Himachal and actor.
The championship was organised by Amrish Tomar of Muscular Planet and his team, whose efforts played a key role in conducting the event. Inder Thakur, Managing Director of River Pine Resort, Manali, was among the prominent personalities present on the occasion.
Several other guests and dignitaries, including Jagdish Thakur, Sunny Rajput, Dr. Anuj Tomar, influencer Raja, Amit Kashyap, Manoj Shekhri, sketch artist Lucky, Aryan and Kartik, attended the event and encouraged the competitors.
The organisers acknowledged the contribution of the participants, judges, sponsors, families and supporters in making the championship a success.
With its emphasis on physical fitness, self-discipline and positive youth engagement, Mr. Himalaya 2026 sought to reinforce a message that extends beyond the bodybuilding stage: a drug-free generation, committed to sports and healthy living, is essential for building a stronger Himachal.
