He was the cynosure of all eyes for all obvious reasons. For, the 56-year-old Premchand Degra who was the 1988 'Mr. Universe' only to become then only the third Indian ever to win the prestigious title besides Monotosh Roy (1951) and Manohar Aich (1952), is widely respected for all his achievements - including six times Asian amateur bodybuilding championship gold.
“It is a wonderful sight to see so many youngsters take part in this Mr India 2012 Nationals here (at Gachibowli Indoor Stadium). This is really heartening that the sport is surviving despite all odds,” says a beaming Premchand even as many participants touch his feet with great respect.
“I always believe that bodybuilding is the mother of all sports for the simple reason that it underlines the guiding principle of a healthy nation - once you maintain your own body in the desired manner you will keep away from all the diseases. And, in the process help the country to be a healthy nation,” he says with his characteristic smile.
“These Nationals are important to teach the young talent a lesson that you don't win medals by adopting short-cut methods like artificial diet. It requires years of hard work to set certain standards,” Premchand explains in the company of two of Hyderabad's best known bodybuilders Mohtesham Ali Khan (2008 Musclemania World Tour silver medallist) and 2010 'Mr. Universe' Laxman Reddy.
“Unfortunately, the youth lack the desire to put in hard work and the discipline needed to be champions. Two basic characteristics which make anyone a champion in any discipline,” he pointed out.
“Unless you have the national pride at your heart, the feeling that you get a chance to represent your Motherland in international events, the motivation factor might not be of the same level,” the former Mr Universe says to a query.
“I am really pleased to know that Kalvakuntla Kavitha (founder president of Telangaja Jagruthi and chief patron of Indian Bodybuilding Federation) has decided to help this sport in such a large scale. This is the best news in recent times. We the bodybuilders need this kind of support to dream big,” says Premchand, referring to the Rs 3 lakh winner purse of 2012 'Mr. India' competition which K. Kavitha is presenting in her individual capacity.
Any regrets at having taken up this sport when you look back? “Absolutely no. I am what I am because of this sport. I am grateful to the Government of India for conferring me the Padma Sri (1990) and the Arjuna Award (1996). Well, I would have been really happy if I had been given a house site in my hometown Hoshiarpur,” explains Premchand.
“The fact that many champions like me from non-glamorous sports have to buy site and construct houses on loans may not send a correct signal to the powers-that-be,” he feels.
What sort of support the Government should extend to the sport across India? “The simple thing is that all equipment related to bodybuilding should be subsidised to encourage many more to start gyms and health clubs and lure more youngsters into the sport,” is Premchand's answer.
“For instance, I run health clubs with help from my two sons Harneel and Sarneel in Hoshiarpur. But that is again not my job. I should afford to travel around the country to educate the young talent. And this I can do only if I am comfortable on home-front,” says the champion athlete of yesteryears.
Which sportspersons do you admire? “All those real champions who display the national pride. No matter from which discipline they come from,” was the flash reply of Premchand. “I know what it means. There were many abroad who used to make fun of me saying that being an Indian I cannot win 'Mr. Universe' title and many wanted me to settle down in US. Actually, that attitude doubled up my passion and zeal and when I won the title in 1988, I am proud that I showed to the world what an Indian can achieve,” he concludes with a sense of justifiable pride.
