Malayali youth Siddharth Balakrishnan (35) made history by winning the Mr. Universe title at the bodybuilding championship organized by the National Physique Committee (NPC) in the United States. Siddharth is the first Indian to achieve this milestone. With this victory, he has also earned eligibility to compete in the competitions conducted by the professional bodybuilding organization, the International Federation of Fitness and Bodybuilding (IFBB).

“I had undergone intense training for the competition. It was disciplined and consistent preparation that led to this success,” Siddharth remarked. He currently runs a gym in Kansas, USA.

Siddharth’s father, Balu Menon, hails from Krishnavihar, Nagampadam, Kottayam. His mother, Uma Menon, is a social worker based in Texas. His sister is Surya Balakrishnan. Siddharth's wife, Kori Balakrishnan, is an American citizen and a yoga instructor. The family migrated from Kottayam to the U.S. 35 years ago.

Mr. Universe title for Kottayam native: First Indian to achieve this historic feat.