Batam, Indonesia : When 28-year-old Ashutosh Saha stepped onto the stage at the 16th WBPF World Bodybuilding & Physique Sports Championships 2025 in Batam (Nov 14–16), little did many know — this was not just another competitor, but the first ever postman from India Post to win a bodybuilding medal. Saha clinched a bronze in the 85 kg category, making history for both himself and the postal service.
From Sprinter-Teen to Gym Trainee
Growing up in the Mumbai suburb of Bhayandar, Saha was once a slight school sprinter. At 15 — encouraged by his father — he entered a gym during summer break. Rapid gains followed: within a couple of years, he was competing and winning under-class titles like “Jr Mumbai Shree” and “Jr Maharashtra Shree.”
By 2016 he had shown enough promise — but financial hardship forced him to skip nationals. Undeterred, his mother sold her jewellery (including her mangalsutra and gold chain) to fund his dream. In 2017, that bet paid off: Saha traveled to a national-level meet and in the following years swept titles at junior and senior levels, including Jr Mumbai Shree, Jr Maharashtra Shree and Jr Mr India.
Comeback After a Career-Threatening Injury
In 2019, tragedy struck. A severe forearm injury — requiring 12 screws and a plate — left doctors warning he might never lift again. For nearly a year he stayed away from the gym.
But Saha’s resolve didn’t waver. By 2023 he re-entered competitive bodybuilding, and in the same year was selected under India Post’s sportsperson-recruitment drive. He reported to work at Worli MDG in Mumbai — juggling a demanding postal job (three-hour commutes, delivery rounds, meals on-the-go) with grueling evening gym sessions.
Despite taunts from some colleagues over his “sportsperson leave”, his discipline never broke. Over two years, he claimed six state-level championships, five golds, a silver at Senior Mr India, and overall titles at major events.
Bronze in Batam — and Bigger Dreams Ahead
At the World Championships in Batam, representing India among 34 national contingents, Saha held aloft the tricolour — chest measuring 49 inches, biceps 14.5 inches — and stood on the podium as bronze medallist in the 85 kg class.
Emotionally, the moment meant everything. “I felt like a superhero,” he said. Yet he’s already looking ahead: “I know my potential. I could have done better. I’ve decided I will win gold in 2026.” His sights are now set on the next world edition — and perhaps, a stable job with the railways for better support.
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