G Balakrishna, a 25-year-old water tank driver from Whitefield, Bengaluru has earned two befitting titles – Mr Asia 2016 and “Arnold Schwarzenegger of Whitefield”.
Balakrishna, a gym instructor, became Mr Asia 2016 at the recently held 5th Phil-Asia bodybuilding championship in the Philippines.
I am proud of my achievement and hope to repeat it more often with some financial support. I owe it to my mother, Parvathamma, and brother Rajesh who have been my pillars of support.Balakrishna to The Hindu
Balakrishna started his water tank business in 2010 to supplement his income. The local resident association helped fund his participation in this competition.
“Despite winning the championship, my worry will always be of funds. With no government support, I still struggle to participate in bodybuilding championships outside the country,” he said.
Earlier too, he won the Mr Universe Under-24 junior contest in 2013 in Germany and Mr Universe title in the same category at the world championship in Athens in 2014.
To maintain his physique, his daily diet includes 750 g of chicken, 25 eggs, 300 g of rice, 200 g of vegetables, along with fish for extra protein and fruits, and a six-hour workout session.
(With inputs from The Hindu)
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