At Dusk Of Life, 72-Year-Old Odisha Bodybuilder Eyes National Medal

The 72-year-old bodybuilder from Berhampur, Dandapani Sahu has made it clear that he will 'not take no for an answer until he achieves his goal of winning a medal at National level bodybuilding under ‘Master’ category, in for a penny, in for a pound'.

From bench presses to squats and lattes, Dandapani never misses his routine of exercise at the Hanuman club where he practices strength training for at least two hours every day.

A resident of Berhampur, Dandapani wakes up before the sun rises and heads for the club before doing anything else. His penchant for bodybuilding began at the tender age of 17 when he watched a man performing daredevilry in a circus. He enrolled himself in a local gym and there was no looking back for him since then.

His first competition was the “Ganjam Shree” in 1976 when he had won the first prize. From district level competitions, he graduated to State level competitions and won many awards defeating several famous bodybuilders.

As far as his daily diet is concerned, it includes whole grains, milk, eggs and fish among other things.

However, his journey to become a bodybuilder was not easy. It was rather a roller coaster ride, full of ups and downs throughout. Being a male member in the family, Dandapani had to look for sources to make his earnings, which kept him away from his passion for quite a few years after his marriage.

But, a passion is something which never leaves your soul. Dandapani rejoined bodybuilding in 2010 and has been participating in the National level competitions under the Masters category. This year around, he aims to win the competition in the senior most age group.

Expressing his pleasure that he gets from bodybuilding, Dandapani told OTV, "Barring 10-12 years after my marriage, I have never actually left this Hanuman Club. This gym is my place of worship where I dream to achieve my goal."

Dandapani’s wife, Sarojini Sahu has played a significant role in her husband’s pursuit of happiness. “I take care of his diet and though he never need any motivation from others, I try to keep him in the zone and ensure that he stays focused on his goal,” she said.

“Bodybuilding is like a dope for me. And I never want to part with my dumbbells as long as I breathe,” said Dandapani with a sigh.