Shivani Gupta, a bikini contestant and dedicated sports enthusiast, has brilliantly conquered every challenge life has presented to her. With unwavering determination, she has emerged victorious in every battle, steadily propelling herself towards a dazzling stardom. The transformation from a small-town girl to being hailed as one of the most prominent figures in the fitness and sports arena is nothing short of remarkable. Her journey is an awe-inspiring testament that not only captivates, but also motivates all those who encounter it, encouraging them to harness their inner strength and craft their unique narratives of triumph.
Tell us more about yourself and your journey towards fitness.
I was born in the holy city of “Ayodhya,” Uttar Pradesh, and raised in Delhi. I pursued my education at Delhi University. Throughout my life, I had a passion for sports, particularly volleyball. However, my journey took a turn when I discovered female bodybuilding. The moment I witnessed female athletes on stage, I was deeply inspired, and it ignited a burning desire within me to become a female physique athlete. From that point forward, my sole mission has been to achieve peak physical fitness and promote a culture of wellness and fitness awareness among people
Could you please share your competitive track record and the brand endorsements you've secured?
I embarked on my competitive journey at a young age, achieving significant milestones including the titles of Miss Delhi 2019, Miss Vijay Classic 2021, and Miss Asia 2021. While I’m currently on a break from competitions, I’m gearing up for a triumphant return. In terms of brand endorsements, I’m proud to have partnered with reputable names such as Jerai Fitness, Being Strong Global, and Muscle Magic Nutrition.
Please tell your first time experience as a bikini athlete on stage.
I can vividly recall that unforgettable moment! I was under immense pressure because I hadn’t disclosed the details of the show to my conservative family. Stepping onto the stage in a bikini was not easy. However, my dedication to the sport and my desire for personal growth outweighed the challenges. The first time my name was announced, and I stepped into the spotlight, surrounded by judges and the enthusiastic applause of the audience, an undeniable fire ignited within me. It was that very moment that fuelled my determination to excel in the competition. In a matter of moments, I felt completely at ease on the stage, ready to showcase my poses.”
Who has been your greatest supporter in your career? Being a woman, was it difficult for you set up a career as a bikini athlete?
My family, particularly my mother, has been my greatest source of support. Her unwavering encouragement to pursue my dreams and stand out in a conservative environment has been instrumental in my journey. Competing as a bikini athlete in such circumstances was undeniably challenging. The support of my family and friends has formed the bedrock of my career. I’m deeply grateful for their unwavering belief in me. I’d also like to express my heartfelt appreciation to my audience, who have been kind and supportive from the very beginning, consistently motivating me to strive for excellence in my career. Lastly, I want to extend my gratitude to the guiding hand of fate or a higher power for granting me this remarkable opportunity and providing me with guidance throughout my life.
How do you stay motivated and who inspires you the most?
My daily motivation is to become the finest version of myself. I relentlessly pursue this goal, continuously pushing myself to excel in every aspect of my life. My mother serves as my most profound inspiration. She has imparted invaluable lessons on mental and physical strength, independence, and resilience. Her unwavering support has been a guiding light, even during moments of failure.
You are famous now! How do you handle all the fame and attention around you?
I truly appreciate your kind words! There was a time when I was surrounded with doubts while pursuing my journey to the bodybuilding stage, wondering about the outcome of my efforts. Today, I’m filled with happiness and gratitude because all the hard work has paid off, and I’ve begun to receive recognition from a wonderful audience. I feel incredibly fortunate to have such a fantastic audience that consistently supports and loves me. Despite these achievements, I remain dedicated to staying grounded and cherishing moments with my family.
Can you give a brief overview on your diet and exercise?
As an athlete, my nutritional focus centers on wholesome, nutrient-dense foods, and I clearly stay away from junk food altogether. I find that home-cooked meals work best for me. While my current lifestyle involves frequent travel, I make a conscious effort to stay within my caloric limits. Typically, my dietary composition leans towards a high-protein, moderate carbohydrate, and fat intake, although this can vary depending on whether I’m preparing for a competition or event. I’m a staunch believer in the benefits of supplementation, and I never miss taking my whey protein, BCAAs, and other recovery supplements.
When it comes to exercise, I believe in lifting heavy weights and always sticking to my workout routine, no matter how tired I am! I enjoy training my legs and glutes the most, but my workouts change depending on whether it’s the off-season or competition season.
What message do you have for all the women out there who want to pursue their dreams like you did!
Don’t be afraid to follow your dreams. Sometimes, self-doubt may hold you back, but once you believe in your abilities, nothing can stop you. Women are incredibly powerful, but we often forget it due to daily responsibilities. It’s time for all of us to rise up and work for ourselves. Women worldwide are making strides, and I’m proud to be part of this movement. Keep going, stay strong, work smart, and find success.
