In the dynamic realm of fitness, one name stands out as a true pioneer—Veshal Khanna, recognized as the Strongest Raw Bench Presser in Asia, and known by his stage name Typhon. With an undefeated streak spanning over a decade, Veshal has solidified his position in the realms of powerlifting and strength athletics. Beyond raw power, his journey is a testament to unrelenting dedication and a family legacy that serves as a perpetual source of inspiration.
Born in the Amritsar district, Veshal Khannacomes from a lineage of strength enthusiasts. His father, Vipan Khanna, a national weightlifting, bodybuilding, and powerlifting champion in 1972, played a pivotal role in igniting Veshal’s passion for strength from a young age. Introduced to powerlifting at the age of 12 in a traditional wrestling Akhada, Veshal showcased above-average strength, setting the stage for his extraordinary journey
In an era when gym culture was in its infancy and resources were scarce, Veshal’s father recognized his son’s exceptional potential and initiated his training using raw iron plates and non-padded wooden benches. While initially drawn to bodybuilding as a teenager, Veshal’s true calling lay in sheer strength and power, particularly the Bench Press in its raw form.
Veshal’s quest for power led him to the Eurasian Championship in Krasnodar, Russia, in 2014, where he made history as the first and only Indian to participate in a professional powerlifting Raw championship. Despite a body weight of 125kg, he maintained a lean physique, gaining recognition from the international powerlifting community.
The pinnacle of Veshal’s achievements came at the GPA Championship, where he emerged as the first Indian to win a professional world championship, setting a record with a bench press of 257.5kg. His legacy is not only defined by championships but also by his ability to overcome challenges and inspire a new generation of athletes.
After a brief hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Veshal Khanna made a triumphant comeback in 2023, competing in numerous championships across the nation and reclaiming his title as the Strongest Man. Amidst the challenges of limited gym facilities, he addressed the issue by establishing his own gym, featuring Asia’s heaviest dumbbell pair at 115kg.
Veshal Khanna’s list of accomplishments is awe-inspiring, including titles such as Junior Mr. Punjab in Bodybuilding (1999), Youngest Strongman of Punjab (Batala) in 2001, World Champion in Strength Building (Chennai) in 2001, and four-time World Champion in Powerlifting (2014, 2015, 2016, 2019). Notably, he is Asia’s Strongest Bench Presser and the only Indian to bench over 250kg Raw. Additionally, he founded Raw Powerlifting in India in 2010 under the India Raw Powerlifting Federation.
As Veshal Khanna’s journey, or Typhon, unfolds, it stands as a testament to human potential, unwavering dedication, and the profound impact of family inspiration. From a skinny youngster in an Akhada to an international powerhouse in powerlifting, Veshal’s legacy is etched in iron, destined to endure for generations to come. And as he gears up for the upcoming Pro Asia Championship, his story continues to inspire fitness enthusiasts worldwide.
FAQs
What motivated Veshal Khanna to become a powerlifter?
Veshal was inspired by his father, a national weightlifter, bodybuilder, and powerlifting champion.
How did Veshal maintain his physique and strength without supplements?
Veshal followed a rigorous training routine and a natural diet that included high-calorie foods like mutton, almonds, and milk.
What was Veshal’s most significant achievement in his powerlifting career?
Veshal’s crowning achievement was winning the GPA Championship in Sydney, where he set a record with a Bench Press “RAW” of 257.5kg.
How did Veshal overcome the challenges in his career?
Veshal persevered through challenges and even made a triumphant comeback after a brief hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
What is Veshal’s contribution to the fitness world?
Veshal opened his own gym, Typhon Fitness Solutions, which houses Asia’s heaviest dumbbell pair, and continues to innovate in the field of strength training.
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