Interview by The Success Today
ACHIEVERS MAGAZINE – EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW
Dr. B. K. Arya (Shiva Ji)
Director – Shiva’s Gym | President – WBBF/WFF (North India)
International Pro Card Holder | National & International Bodybuilding Judge
Mr. Haryana 1994 | Mr. India 2016 | Mr. World 2017 | Mr. Universe 2018 (Gold Medalist)
Could you tell us about yourself and your work?
I am Dr. B. K. Arya, widely known as Shiva Ji, a professional bodybuilder, international judge, and fitness mentor with over three decades of experience in the fitness industry. My journey began at a time when bodybuilding and structured fitness training were still emerging in India. Driven by passion, discipline, and belief in physical culture, I committed my life to fitness not just as a profession, but as a purpose.
I am the Director of Shiva’s Gym, which I have been successfully running in Delhi for the past 30 years. Alongside coaching and mentoring, I have represented India on national and international bodybuilding platforms, earning prestigious titles including Mr. Haryana (1994), Mr. India (2016), Mr. World (2017 – Lithuania), and Mr. Universe (2018 – Gold Medalist).
In addition, I serve as President of WBBF/WFF (North India) and as a National & International Bodybuilding Judge, contributing to the growth, fairness, and professionalism of the sport. My work focuses on building not just strong bodies, but disciplined, confident, and resilient individuals.
How you and your service is helping society?
Fitness is the foundation of a healthy society, and my work is deeply rooted in this belief. Through Shiva’s Gym, I have helped thousands of individuals improve their physical health, mental strength, and overall quality of life. In today’s stressful and sedentary lifestyle, my mission has been to make fitness accessible, safe, and sustainable for people of all age groups.
I strongly emphasize natural training, correct technique, and injury prevention, ensuring long-term well-being rather than temporary results. Many young individuals who entered the gym without direction gained discipline, confidence, and clarity through structured training and mentorship.
As a bodybuilding judge and federation leader, I actively promote ethical practices and transparency in competitions, safeguarding young athletes from misinformation and unhealthy shortcuts. Fitness, when taught correctly, transforms not only bodies but also mindsets—encouraging discipline, self-respect, and consistency.
By creating healthier individuals, my work indirectly strengthens families, communities, and society as a whole. A fit individual contributes positively in every aspect of life, and that is the social impact I strive to create.
What is the USP of your work?
The core USP of my work lies in experience, authenticity, and ethics. With more than 30 years in the fitness industry, I understand that real results come from fundamentals, discipline, and patience—not shortcuts.
Every individual I train receives personalized guidance, based on body structure, health conditions, and long-term goals. I combine global standards gained through international exposure with practical, ground-level training methods suitable for Indian lifestyles.
Another defining factor is my strong stand for natural bodybuilding and clean training practices. I guide athletes toward sustainable growth while protecting their health and future. Mental conditioning, discipline, and character-building are equally emphasized alongside physical development.
Most importantly, I lead by example. The values I teach—consistency, dedication, and respect for the body—are the values I live by every day. This honesty and personal involvement set my work apart and earn lasting trust.
What are your Vision and Mission?
My vision is to create a culture where fitness is treated as a necessity, not an option. I want people to understand that true success begins with physical and mental well-being.
My mission is to educate individuals about correct training methods, promote natural bodybuilding, and develop disciplined athletes who represent fitness with integrity. I aim to raise the standard of Indian bodybuilding on national and international platforms while maintaining fairness and professionalism.
Through Shiva’s Gym, my goal is to mentor not only athletes but also future trainers who carry forward ethical practices and strong values. I believe fitness should empower individuals to live confident, healthy, and purposeful lives.
Building strong bodies is important—but building strong character and disciplined minds is my true mission.
What are your achievements in this industry?
Over the years, I have been honored with several prestigious titles, including Mr. Haryana (1994), Mr. India (2016), Mr. World (2017 – Lithuania, Europe), and Mr. Universe (2018 – Gold Medalist). These achievements reflect decades of hard work, discipline, and unwavering commitment.
Beyond medals, my proudest achievement is running Shiva’s Gym continuously for 30 years in Delhi, impacting thousands of lives through fitness and mentorship. Many of my trainees have gone on to become professional athletes, trainers, and disciplined individuals in various fields.
Holding an International Pro Card, serving as a National & International Judge, and leading as President of WBBF/WFF (North India) are milestones that allow me to contribute to the sport at a broader level.
However, the greatest achievement is the respect, trust, and transformation earned through honest work.
Does your work ever feel tedious to you? If so, how do you stay driven and motivated towards it?
Fitness is not just my profession—it is my lifestyle. While every long journey has challenges, my work has never felt meaningless or disconnected. What keeps me motivated is the visible transformation in people’s lives—physically, mentally, and emotionally.
Discipline is my biggest strength. Motivation may fluctuate, but discipline ensures consistency. I follow the same principles I teach—structured routine, continuous learning, and self-control.
Interacting with dedicated trainees, mentoring young athletes, and staying updated with evolving fitness knowledge keeps my passion alive. Purpose-driven work never feels burdensome.
Knowing that my guidance can positively shape someone’s life gives me energy and direction every single day.
What are your hobbies and specific interests other than your profession?
Beyond fitness, I have a deep interest in spirituality and self-discipline, which help maintain mental balance and clarity. I believe true strength is a combination of physical power and inner stability.
I enjoy reading about health, wellness, and traditional Indian practices, which support a holistic approach to fitness. Mentoring young athletes beyond training—guiding them in mindset and discipline—is something I truly enjoy.
Spending quality time with family, practicing mindfulness, and living a simple, disciplined life keep me grounded and focused. These interests help me bring calmness and positivity into both my personal and professional life.
You have achieved so much in life, any specific advice you’d like to share with our readers to grow in life.
My advice is simple: stay disciplined, stay patient, and trust the process. Success in any field comes from consistency and honesty, not shortcuts.
Prioritize your health—because without it, no achievement has value. Learn continuously, respect your body, and surround yourself with positive influences. Failures are lessons, not defeats.
Believe in yourself even when results are slow. Growth is not about competing with others, but about becoming better than yesterday.
If you remain sincere, disciplined, and focused, success will follow—both in fitness and in life.
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