He is HIV Positive but This Bodybuilder is Positive about Life

As Schwarzenegger wannabes pit muscle against muscle to win India’s top bodybuilding prize, among these combatants will be one individual who is competing against life itself. This is an inspiring story of the can-do spirit.

He is HIV+ but he is also positive about life. If you meet Khundrakpam Pradipkumar Singh you might feel a tinge of sympathy about a man who might soon come to the end of the road. But for Khundrakpam the journey is just beginning. Even today there might not be a cure for the dreaded virus but this inspiring individual busts the myth that HIV+ means a date with mortality and despair. Pradipkumar, tested positive for HIV seven years ago. Today, seven years down the line he is a bodybuilder and one of the contenders for the Mr. India title. In his own words,

"I was into drugs and that is how I contracted the virus. There was pain, anguish and a deep sense of guilt. That is when I decided to channelize all my emotions into body building and maintaining a fitness level."

He began bodybuilding in 2003 and along with retroviral therapy he turned to the gym. He won the state title in the 60kg category. Medals and title came his way and soon he was competing at the national level. A runner-up at the Senior Mr. India Challenge Cup provided him further motivation to look at the bigger horizon. For the ultimate national title in the sport, he has had to mortgage his sister’s gold jewelry to make the trip to Kolkata. Khundrakpam summarizes his gung-ho spirit by saying,

"I want to prove that HIV is not the end of the world. I want to be a role model for such patients and tell the world that WE CAN."

His motivational journey has been recognized by his state government which made him the face of their AIDS campaigns as a brand ambassador. Despite being a household name in his state of Manipur, financial help has been difficult to come by. Though that has hindered his diet and preparations, it hasn’t blocked his vision and attitude. Even as he has his sights set on winning the national crown he dreams of contributing to society one day.

“I want to start a fitness centre for HIV youths. I don't have the funds but I am not giving up. I want to tell the youth to say no to drugs and embrace life."

Let’s hope his biceps win the day…and life. Also see this UNODC article