Tamil superstar Suriya Sivakumar is known for pushing the envelope when it comes to performance, but for his upcoming film Kanguva, he’s taken things to a whole new level. The 49-year-old actor stunned fans recently by revealing his impressive six-pack physique for the film — without any steroids or shortcuts.
In an exclusive chat with Mana Stars, Suriya opened up about the intense 100-day regimen that helped him achieve his transformation, just in time for a high-octane climax battle with Bollywood’s Bobby Deol. “At 30, fitness felt like running on a flat road. But at 49, it’s like climbing a steep mountain,” he said candidly. “Your metabolism doesn’t work the same way anymore. So, I had to push harder with cardio, follow a calorie deficit diet, and stay incredibly disciplined.”
Suriya, who’s always been a self-confessed foodie, admitted that staying on track wasn’t easy. “I love food, and so do my wife and daughter. My son is the only one in the house who doesn’t care much about eating!” he laughed. “But during those 100 days, I was laser-focused. It’s a real challenge to bring back a six-pack after a decade.”
Suriya’s physical transformation isn’t just inspiring — it’s also a powerful example of what’s possible with dedication and the right strategy, even as the body ages. Experts agree that achieving a lean physique at nearly 50 requires a smarter, more sustainable approach.
Vidhi Chawla, a dietitian and founder of Fisico Diet & Aesthetic Clinic, explained while speaking to Indian Express, “At this age, metabolism naturally slows, making it harder to shed fat and build muscle. A 100-day plan that focuses on long-term lifestyle adjustments, not quick fixes, is the way to go.”
The key to Suriya’s success, according to Kanikka Malhotra, consultant dietitian and certified diabetes educator, likely included a high-protein, whole-food diet with strict exclusions: no dairy, sugar, or processed foods. “He probably followed structured meal timing, maintained hydration, avoided cheat meals, and focused on intense workouts tailored to his age and goals,” she said to Indian Express.
However, both experts caution that this level of discipline isn’t for everyone. “Such restrictive plans must be personalised,” Malhotra stressed. “Factors like existing health conditions, nutritional needs, and one’s body type all play a role. What worked for Suriya won’t work for everyone — and it shouldn’t be tried without professional guidance.”
With Kanguva shows Suriya in a never-seen-before avatar, fans are not only excited about the film but also inspired by his incredible dedication at this age. His transformation stands as a reminder that age is no barrier when it comes to fitness — as long as you’re willing to put in the work, and do it the right way.