A FEMALE bodybuilder is defying cultural stereotypes to become top of her game in India. Outside of the gym Ashwini Waskar looks like any other Indian girl-next-door. But beneath her traditional dress, the 32-year-old has a rippling physique that is worshiped onstage at prestigious bodybuilding competitions. Just a year ago Ashwini was overweight and unhappy with her body. But after embarking on a gruelling weightlifting routine and a high-protein diet she shed the extra pounds and developed impressive rock-hard muscles. Ashwini has now quit her job as a senior research fellow at the Central Institute of Fisheries Education to concentrate on bodybuilding.

Videographer / Director: Deepak Thomas
Producer: Aamir Bashir, Tom Midlane, Chloe Browne
Assistant Producer: Neha Routela
Editor: Sonia Estal