Premchand Degra, the 1988 ‘Mr Universe' was the star attraction even as the young contestants were gearing up for the ‘Mr India' bodybuilding championship at the Gachibowli Indoor Stadium on Saturday.
Hoshiarpur-based Premchand is delighted that the sport has been a given a major fillip.
“I was thrilled to learn that ‘Kavithaji' (K. Kavitha – founder president of Telangana Jagruti and chief patron of Indian Bodybuilding Federation) was personally giving Rs. 3 lakhs to the winner of ‘Mr. India' title here,” he exclaimed.
“This is what the sport needs badly across the country. Unfortunately, not many take it with the seriousness as it deserves,” he said.
He also lamented about the tendency to opt for short cuts. “They have to work hard and show the desired discipline. There is no place for artificial diet and no substitute for hard work and commitment,” explained the 56-year-old Premchand.
“Its a pity we are forced to take loans and run these clubs as there is no guarantee of their success,” he pointed.
Mr. Premchand also interacted with the city's top musclemen - 2008 Musclemania World Tour silver medallist Mohtesham Ali and 2010 ‘Mr Universe' Laxman Reddy.
