Happy Birthday Milind Soman: Lesser-known facts about the actor, athlete, and fitness icon
Milind Soman, from national-level swimmer to iconic model and actor, continues to inspire with his fitness feats, Ironman triumphs, vegan lifestyle, and adventurous spirit, proving age is just a number.
Curated by :
Gayatri Rani
November 04, 2025 / 06:01 IST
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Milind Soman, the actor, supermodel, and fitness icon, has captivated audiences for decades with his charisma, athleticism, and dedication to a healthy lifestyle. From national-level swimming to iconic modelling stints and endurance marathons, Milind’s journey is a blend of talent, determination, and inspiration. Take a look at some of the lesser-known facts about the actor.
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Early years Milind Soman was born in Glasgow in 1965 to a Scottish mother and a Maharashtrian father. The family relocated to India when he was a baby. He was trained initially in engineering-oriented studies before switching to modelling and acting. He worked as a photographer and occasionally as a director.
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Athlete Milind Soman competed at the national level as a swimmer before turning to modelling and acting. The actor held the Indian National Swimming Championship title for four years consecutively from 1984. Fitness has always been a major part of his life, as evidenced by his early love of sports and his representation of Maharashtra in swimming competitions.
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Modeling Breakthrough The actor appeared in a 1995 Raymond suit commercial, and a contentious 1995–1996 music video era provided the actor with his first significant public exposure. He got recognition after he and Madhu Sapre appeared in the famous Pepsi commercial. He became well-known and one of India's leading male models thanks to that commercial, which combined charisma and athleticism. It also led to opportunities for television hosting and acting.
Acting Debut In 1999, he made his acting debut in the critically acclaimed Malayalam film Marana Simhasanam. Despite appearing in a number of movies and television series, Milind maintained his integrity by only taking on roles that complemented his personal beliefs and persona as a fitness icon.
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Marathon Enthusiast Milind Soman's long-distance running is well-known. He has demonstrated that age is nothing more than a number by finishing multiple marathons, including ultramarathons. Many Indian fitness enthusiasts have adopted endurance sports as a lifestyle choice as a result of their commitment to running.
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Ironman Triathlon The actor successfully finished the world's most difficult triathlon. On July 19, Milind Soman finished the Ironman Triathlon in Zurich, Switzerland. Seven Indians were among the approximately 2,000 competitors, and Milind emerged as the winner. He won the triathlon after finishing it in 15 hours and 19 minutes.
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Limca Book Records After completing a 1,500-kilometre Greenathon in 2012, Milind Soman set a new Limca Book record. As part of the "Greenathon" environmental initiative, Milind Soman ran 1,500 kilometres from Delhi to Mumbai in 30 days, earning her a spot in the Limca Book of Records. In addition, he has completed the Ultraman Florida race and competed in the Ironman triathlon, among other records and accolades.
Vegan Lifestyle Milind encourages healthy eating practices and eats a diet high in plants. His emphasis on nutrition enhances his intense exercise regimen, showing how diet and exercise can work together to produce a long-lasting, healthful way of living.
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Personal Milestones In 2018, Milind wed supermodel Ankita Konwar, demonstrating the compatibility of fitness and love. In order to maintain a balance between his public persona and his privacy, he only shares glimpses of his personal milestones on social media.
![Limca Book record After completing a 1,500-kilometre Greenathon in 2012, Milind Soman set a new Limca Book record. As part of the "Greenathon" environmental initiative, Milind Soman ran 1,500 kilometres from Delhi to Mumbai in 30 days, earning her a spot in the Limca Book of Records. In addition, he has completed the Ultraman Florida race and competed in the Ironman triathlon, among other records and accolades.](https://images.moneycontrol.com/static-mcnews/2020/03/Milind-Soman.jpg "Limca Book record After completing a 1,500-kilometre Greenathon in 2012, Milind Soman set a new Limca Book record. As part of the "Greenathon" environmental initiative, Milind Soman ran 1,500 kilometres from Delhi to Mumbai in 30 days, earning her a spot in the Limca Book of Records. In addition, he has completed the Ultraman Florida race and competed in the Ironman triathlon, among other records and accolades.")
