Bhupender Dhawan, a distinguished figure in Indian strength sports, served as the national coach for both powerlifting and bodybuilding from 1994 to 2019. His dual role over 25 years significantly advanced India’s presence in these disciplines on the international stage.
Dronacharya Award (2000): Dhawan was the first powerlifting coach to receive India’s highest coaching honor, the Dronacharya Award, presented by President K. R. Narayanan.
International Recognition: In 2017, he was inducted into the Hall of Fame by the World Powerlifting Union and the British Powerlifting Federation in Birmingham.
Early International Coaching: His inaugural assignment as coach of the Indian powerlifting team was at the 1994 World Benchpress Championship in Finland.
Beyond coaching, Dhawan founded “Dronacharya The Gym,” a premier fitness institution in India, nurturing numerous athletes who have excelled nationally and internationally. His commitment to athlete development and sports education has left an enduring impact on India’s strength sports community.
