Sidharth Balakrishnan, an Indian-American bodybuilder from Nagampadam, Kottayam, has made history as the first Indian to win the NPC Mr. Universe title, triumphing over competitors from around the world. A former US Army member, Sidharth now eyes success in IFBB professional bodybuilding, with strong support from his family and growing opportunities in modeling. The 35-year-old Sidhardth Balakrishnan showcased his impressive Rear Lat Spread, defined abs, and shared much about his identity on the grand stage. “Thiruvananthapurath maram keri nadanna, noolu pole irunna payyan ayirunu njan (I was a skinny kid who hopped around trees in Thiruvananthapuram),” he expressed in Malayalam. For Sid, winning the Mr Universe title has granted him the sought-after Pro Card, and he is now just one pro show away from competing in the Mr Olympia event, regarded as the peak of bodybuilding. “In cricket terms, I have made it to the Indian team, and the next step is going to the World Cup.” This cricket analogy should dispel any remaining doubts about his Indianness. Sid entered the fiercely competitive world of bodybuilding later than most. He briefly worked as a clinical psychologist before leaving that career to pursue bodybuilding full-time. The Beastified Gym in Kansas serves as his haven, where he trains three times a day. Sid consumes six meals daily, but none of them include a Kerala sadya, a lavish spread of dishes typically prepared with coconut oil. “I’m a true Malayali and I cherish our Malayali culture, except for the food (laughs heartily).” Sid resides in Overland Park, Kansas. He is married to Korey, an Italian-American, whom he considers his greatest support. They have a daughter, Harley. The family stayed together during Sid’s NPC event.
