Ankit Baiyanpuria joins PM Modi in ‘Swachhata Hi Seva’ campaign. Who is this fitness influencer?

Ankit Baiyanpuria gained newfound recognition when he introduced the challenging ’75 Hard Challenge’ on Instagram, aiming to boost his mental resilience and self-discipline.

A fitness influencer hailing from Bayanpur, Sonipat, Ankit took part in the ‘Shramdaan for cleanliness’ initiative alongside Prime Minister Narendra Modi as part of the ‘Swachhata Hi Seva’ campaign, a day before Gandhi Jayanti. Modi, sharing a video of their collaboration, highlighted the blend of fitness and well-being with cleanliness, fostering a ‘Swachh and Swasth Bharat’ atmosphere.

During the video, Modi inquired how the Swachhata mission contributes to Ankit’s fitness. Ankit responded, emphasizing the collective responsibility to keep the environment clean for maintaining good health.

Ankit Baiyanpuria, formerly a desi wrestler, transitioned into a fitness influencer renowned for promoting traditional workout methods. Raised by laborer parents, his distinctive routines incorporating mental well-being practices, such as reading the ‘Bhagavad Gita,’ have gained popularity on social media.

Ankit’s fitness journey started after a shoulder injury during his mud wrestling days led him to shift gears. His adoption of the ’75 Hard Challenge’ from Andy Frisella propelled him to Instagram stardom with over 4.9 million followers.

The challenge included progress selfies, a strict diet, ample water intake, daily readings, and outdoor workouts. Ankit’s unique greeting, ‘Ram Ram sarya ne,’ established a strong connection with his audience.

The shift from YouTube comedy to fitness influencer was catalyzed by the Covid-19 lockdown and three major injuries that halted his wrestling career.

The ‘Swachhata Hi Seva’ campaign, initiated by PM Modi, witnessed leaders nationwide participating in the ‘Shramdaan for Cleanliness’ program on October 1. This campaign, leading up to ‘Swachhata Pakhwada- Swachhata Hi Seva’ 2023, aims for one hour of ‘Shramdaan for swachhata’ at 10 am on October 1, echoing Modi’s call during the 105th episode of Mann ki Baat. The ‘Ek Tareekh, Ek Ghanta, Ek Saath’ Campaign is a mega cleanliness drive aligned with the celebration of Gandhi Jayanti.