The Bhutanese Leading the way.
The capital city came alive last weekend as the 14th Bodybuilding & Fitness Championship 2025 turned Thimphu’s Clock Tower Square into a powerful display of strength, dedication, and national pride. Beneath the glowing lights, Bhutan’s finest athletes stepped onto the stage, inspiring a wave of excitement across the fitness community.
The night belonged to Maha Lal Rai, who claimed the prestigious Mr Bhutan 2025 title. His commanding presence, flawless muscle definition, and calm confidence won over both the judges and the crowd. For Rai, the victory was the result of years of persistence, strict discipline, and an unbreakable belief in self-improvement.
“It’s not just about lifting weights, it’s about lifting yourself every single day,” said Maha Lal Rai, moments after being crowned. “This win means a lot to me, but even more, I hope it motivates others to start their own journey toward fitness.”
Rai’s triumph was a highlight of a night filled with energy and emotion. In the Men’s Open Bodybuilding category, Chencho and Sonam Phuntsho earned the 1st and 2nd Runner-up titles, pushing each other to deliver outstanding performances.
The Men’s Sports Physique competition featured ten determined participants, with Phub Dorji taking home the championship title. Tandin Gyeltshen and Yeshi Dorji followed closely, earning admiration for their poise and endurance.
The evening also saw a proud moment for Bhutan’s female athletes as the Women’s Model Physique category added elegance and empowerment to the event. Ugyen Pema took the top title with her grace and confidence, followed by Kinzang Choden and Choki Wangmo, who showcased that strength and beauty go hand in hand.
A milestone addition this year was the Men’s Junior Bodybuilding category (age 18 to 21) the first of its kind in Bhutan, aimed at encouraging youth to adopt a healthy and disciplined lifestyle. Tshewang Dorji made history as the inaugural Junior Champion, while Tshering Dhendup secured the 1st Runner-up spot.
“We introduced this new category to give our young people a goal, something positive to focus on,” said Sonam Tobgay, General Secretary of the Bhutan Bodybuilding Association. “Through bodybuilding, they can build confidence, respect, and strength that will serve them for life.”
As the event drew to a close, the atmosphere was filled with pride and inspiration. From veterans like Maha Lal Rai to first-time competitors, the championship was more than a contest, it was a reminder that Bhutan’s fitness movement is thriving, and its heartbeat lies in the discipline, unity, and dreams of its athletes.
Five athletes from the Bhutan Bodybuilding Association will be representing Bhutan at the upcoming 16th World Bodybuilding and Physique Sports Championship 2025, to be held in Indonesia from 11th to 17th November 2025.
They are Mahalal Rai, Sonam Phuntsho, Kinzang Choden, Chencho and Ugyen Pema.
