Punjabi Actor Varinder Singh Ghuman Dies of Heart Attack During Minor Surgery For Bicep Injury - Report

Veteran Punjabi actor and bodybuilder Varinder Singh Ghuman tragically passed away after suffering a heart attack. The unfortunate incident happened during what was believed to be a minor surgical procedure. He had travelled to Amritsar for a surgery related to a bicep/shoulder injury. The procedure was considered routine, and he was expected to return home the same day, but instead, he reportedly went into cardiac arrest and could not be revived. 

Ghuman was 53-years-old and a familiar face in both the bodybuilding world and the film industry. He had shared screen space with Salman Khan in Tiger 3 and was widely admired for his muscular physique and discipline.

Varinder Singh Ghuman Death Cause

According to initial reports and family confirmation, Ghuman’s cause of death was a heart attack that occurred after his surgery. The operation, ostensibly a minor repair of a bicep or shoulder injury, had been uneventful, but a sudden cardiac event developed subsequently. 

A senior doctor, on condition of anonymity, said that although the procedure was successful, Ghuman’s heart issue emerged postoperatively and could not be reversed. His family publicly confirmed the heart attack as the cause of death. 

What Leads To Sudden Heart Attacks?

Such cases fall under a broader category of perioperative myocardial injury or infarction, that is, damage to the heart during or after non-cardiac surgery. Dr Mahesh Ghogare, Consultant Cardiology, Apollo Hospitals, Navi Mumbai, explains myocardial infarction (heart attack) occurs when blood flow to a section of the heart muscle is suddenly blocked. "Myocardial infarction occurs when blood flow to a section of the heart muscle is suddenly blocked. This interruption deprives the heart tissue of oxygen, leading to permanent damage if not restored promptly," he notes. 

The primary cause is atherosclerosis. It is a buildup of fatty deposits (plaques) in the arteries. Dr Ghogare clarifies, “The primary cause is the rupture of an atherosclerotic plaque in the coronary arteries, followed by the formation of a blood clot (thrombus) that obstructs blood flow.” If the clot blocks the artery, the heart muscle doesn’t get the oxygen it needs and begins to die.

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How Can You Stay Safe?

Dr Ghogare cautions:

• High blood pressure, smoking, diabetes, high LDL cholesterol, lack of exercise, and chronic stress are major risk factors.
• The risk is highest for those with metabolic syndrome (belly fat, high BP, high sugar, abnormal cholesterol).

Recognising symptoms early is vital. As he says, “In many cases, especially among diabetics and women, heart attacks present atypically or even silently.” Any chest discomfort, pain radiating to the jaw or arm, shortness of breath, cold sweats, or sudden fatigue should not be ignored.

Why Athletes and Bodybuilders Face Hidden Heart Risks

Even though bodybuilders like Ghuman maintain rigorous fitness routines, doctors warn that intense physical stress, dehydration, or supplement misuse can silently damage the heart over time.

Here’s what experts recommend:

• Regular heart screenings: Especially if you have a family history of heart disease.
• Balanced exercise intensity: Overtraining can increase inflammation and heart strain.
• Avoid extreme supplements: Stick to medically approved protein sources.
• Prioritise recovery: Rest is as crucial as training.

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Conclusion

Varinder Singh Ghuman’s death is a heartbreaking loss for the film and fitness world alike. His story underlines an important truth: our hearts need care beyond muscle and endurance. Regular check-ups, balanced routines, and awareness of warning signs can go a long way in preventing tragedies like this.