The Bodybuilding World Pays Respect to the Late Indian Bodybuilding Legend Who ‘Inspired’ Arnold Schwarzenegger

Manohar Aich, popularly known as ‘Pocket Hercules’, continues to inspire the world of bodybuilding even after his passing, years ago. Recently, a video showcasing his iconic posing routine and a glimpse of his early life resurfaced on Instagram, reigniting admiration and tributes from fans worldwide. Aich’s journey to becoming the second Indian to win the prestigious Mr. Universe contest is nothing short of inspiring.

Reflecting on his legacy, the seven-time Mr. Olympia, Arnold Schwarzenegger, once shared his admiration for Aich. In 2012, Arnie took to his ‘X’ and posted a heartfelt message for Aich, saying, “Happy birthday, Manohar Aich! You’re an inspiration! All of us wish we could have biceps like that when we’re 100.” Despite their paths never crossing, Aich admired Schwarzenegger’s cinematic feats as well.

In an interview with Daily Mail (2012), Aich revealed, “I like the incredible stunts he (Arnold Schwarzenegger) does in the movies.” Furthermore, throughout his life, Aich remained humble, attributing his happiness to his ability to stay free from stress despite financial hardships. His journey from a humble background to international acclaim underscores the power of determination and unwavering passion.

Born in 1913 in the Comilla District of British India (now in Bangladesh), Aich’s early life was marked by adversity. Overcoming childhood illness, he found solace and strength in the exercises of local wrestlers. His determination led him to perform feats of strength like bending steel rods and tearing books in half, supporting his family as a teenager.

His path to bodybuilding greatness was not without challenges. During his twenties, Aich moved to Kolkata, where he balanced his passion for strength training with selling coconuts at the railway station to make ends meet. Even an incident where a sword pierced his neck during a performance did not deter his spirit. A pivotal moment came in 1947 when Aich, then serving in the British colonial Air Force, stood up against his superiors in support of India’s independence movement.

This courageous act led to his imprisonment, during which he devoted up to 12 hours a day to rigorous exercise routines. After India gained independence, Aich emerged stronger, winning the Mr. Hercules contest in 1950 and earning the moniker ‘Pocket Hercules’ due to his compact yet powerful physique. His fame soared further when he clinched the Mr. Universe title in 1952, standing at a height of 4 feet 11 inches with a naturally sculpted body. Today, the bodybuilding world is celebrating his legacy.

Fans pay their tribute to the natural bodybuilding legend

Fans appreciated the fact that Manohar Aich achieved his bodybuilding success without using ste**ds or protein supplements. They wrote in the comments, “The best thing is this he did it without modern day ster**ds or protein just a natural physique,” and “Pure natural bodybuilding.”

Indian bodybuilding fans also celebrated him as a source of pride, writing, “The Pocket Hercules Pride of Kolkata, West Bengal. Pride of India 🇮🇳 LEGEND FOREVER.” Many suggested that Aich’s life story is so inspiring that it deserves a biopic. “Wow…deserves movie on this story, inspiring,” read one such comment.

In contrast with other bodybuilders, fans noted that he appeared healthier during his final days. “Unlike the other bodybuilding greats, he looked way healthier in his last days, rip,” wrote one bodybuilding enthusiast. Appreciating his health, another said, “Even at the age of 95 He used to climb stairs to 3rd floor (where he lived) and ate 5 meals a day. Pocket Hercules from Kolkata.”

As fans collectively celebrate Manohar Aich’s remarkable life and achievements in bodybuilding, he will continue to inspire those looking to further their career in the sport.