Human anatomy acts as a powerful canvas for self-exploration and resilience, particularly for transgender men. In this photo essay, we delve into the lives of three individuals. who reveal the transformative influence of fitness and exercise in their quest to affirm their identity.
ARYAN PASHA, 32 BODYBUILDER AND ACTIVIST
In 2018, Aryan Pasha made history by becoming India's first transgender man to win a prize at Musclemania India, a significant achievement in the world of bodybuilding. The 32-year-old, who has dedicated a decade to sculpting his physique, secured the runner-up spot in the Men's Physique (short) category. "Working out has made me feel much more confident in my own body. The time I spend in the gym is only for myself, it's my therapy," shares Pasha.
The Delhi-based athlete maintains a demanding workout routine that is intensive, committing to daily gym visits with rigorous weight training five days a week besides daily cardio sessions. "The stage is my ultimate inspiration in bodybuilding; it's where I showcase my true self. To me, it's not just about competition; it's a quantifiable sport that rewards consistency," he affirms. Bodybuilding transcends mere profession for Pasha, serving as an extension of his activism.
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
The 30 Best Watches Of 2024
Rounding up the best shapes, materials, complications and sizes from this year's horological novelty treasure chest.
Wes Lang's Heroes of Love...
Last month, LA-based artist Wes Lang unveiled The Black Paintings, a monumental series of works that play like storyboards to a raucous midnight horror movieand a spiritual quest. Here, GQ collaborates with the artist on a fashion story that brings his stylish characters off the canvas.
The Miraculous Resurrection of Notre Dame
In 2019, a fire nearly destroyed the crown jewel of France-and the nation set a breakneck five-year deadline to bring it back from the ashes. This is the story of how an army of artisans turned back centuries to restore Notre-Dame by hand, and wound up reviving something even greater than the cathedral itself.
"IT'S NOT ABOUT BEING PERFECT. IT'S ABOUT BEING REVOLUTIONARY."
Beyoncé Knowles-Carter talks business, legacy, art, and family
The Wedding Singers
Madboy Mink's dynamic duo, Saba Azad and Imaad Shah, redefine festive style.
A Watch Is More Than Just a Pretty Face
As collectors look to make their grail watches stand out, they're turning to unique vintage bracelets and paying thousands on thousands for straps on the secondary market.
The Fluidity of Cartier
Why Gen Z stars are obsessed with this historic maison.
A Princess with Passion
From restoring monuments to reviving hereditary crafts, Bhavnagar's Brijeshwari Kumari Gohil has her sights on the future.
THE FUTURE SOUNDS LIKE AT EEZ
The Coachella-slaying, multi-language-singing, genre-obliterating members of Ateez are quickly becoming load-bearing stars of our global pop universe.
DEMNA UNMASKED
He's the most influential designer of the past decade. He's also the most controversial. Now the creative director of Balenciaga is exploring a surprising source of inspiration: happiness. GQ's Samuel Hine witnesses the dawn of Demna's new era, in Paris, New York, and Shanghai. Photographs by Jason Nocito.