National Sports Day: Aamir Khan To Saiyami Kher - Bollywood's Athletic Stars

While we often see Bollywood stars on the silver screen, many of them have had athletic beginnings that are not known to their fans.

On this National Sports Day, let’s take a look at some of these Bollywood stars who were once deeply involved in the world of sports.

Aamir Khan: Mr. Perfectionist was a state level tennis player at the junior level and also was the Maharashtra State Champion. The actor once shared why he quit tennis. ""I don’t think I could have ever made it to any significant level but I really enjoyed the game so I had a lot of fun while playing it. And then one fine day, my dad decided that I should stop playing so I stopped," Khan explained. (Image: PTI)

Saiyami Kher: Saiyami Kher is renowned for her athletic discipline, which she has maintained even after becoming a successful actor. Before stepping into the world of films, Saiyami was actively involved in sports and played cricket, badminton, and sprinting at zonal and district-level tournaments. Currently, she is preparing for an international sporting event known as Ironman. This triathlon race will see her compete in cycling, swimming, and sprinting, showcasing her versatile athletic skills and dedication to sports. (Image: Special arrangement)

Richa Chadha: Richa Chadha, known for her versatility as an actor, was a dedicated Kabaddi player during her school days in Delhi. The ‘Fukrey’ actress, who recently became a mother, represented her school in zonal Kabaddi tournaments across the city. Her early training in Kabaddi proved invaluable when she was cast in the film "Panga," where she portrayed a Kabaddi player. (Image: Special arrangement)

Ali Fazal: Before Ali Fazal became a renowned actor, he was an avid basketball player during his time at Doon School. Ali actively participated in various zonal and intercollegiate basketball tournaments and initially aspired to pursue a career in basketball. However, due to a serious injury, he was forced to step away from the sport and explore alternative career paths. This unexpected turn of events ultimately led him to the world of acting. (Image: Special arrangement)

Gulshan Devaiah: Gulshan Devaiah, one of the most talented actors of recent times, has truly been a jack of all trades before finding his calling in the Hindi film industry. Before pursuing acting, Gulshan was on a path to become a fashion designer, having graduated in fashion. Even before his fashion career, he was an active sports enthusiast and excelled as a javelin thrower during his academic years. The ‘Ulajh’ actor ranked number one in district-level sporting events, but he couldn’t quite make it to the state level. (Image: Special arrangement)

Akshay Oberoi: Akshay Oberoi was a sports enthusiast long before making his mark in the film industry. Born and raised in New Jersey, US, Akshay was an avid cross-country marathon sprinter during his university days. He participated in various marathons across New Jersey, showcasing his athletic prowess before discovering his passion for acting. (Image: Special arrangement)

Anushka Ranjan: Anushka Ranjan once aspired to be a professional sportswoman as a swimmer. During her school days, Anushka actively participated in various inter-school and zonal swimming competitions, earning accolades for both herself and her school. Although she eventually pursued a career in the film industry, Anushka's passion for swimming remains strong. (Image: Special arrangement)

Aditya Seal: The Khel Khel Mein actor Aditya Seal has been a dedicated martial artist for many years, specialising in Taekwondo. He began his training at the age of 15 and continues to practice the art to this day. Aditya holds a third dan black belt and has competed in numerous tournaments, both in India and South Korea, where he has even won international gold medals. (Image: Special arrangement)

Nimrit Kaur Ahluwalia: Before making her mark on television as an actress, Khatron Ke Khiladi contestant Nimrit Kaur Ahluwalia was an avid sports enthusiast during her academic years in Delhi. Nimrit excelled as a sprinter, participating in various Delhi zonal tournaments and securing first place in the 100, 200, and 400-meter races. (Image: Special arrangement)