Mustafa Ahmed, known for his role as Rizwan in the film Dhurandhar: The Revenge, has carved a unique path from fitness training to acting. In the movie, he plays Hamza’s trusted aide, adding depth to the story alongside Ranveer Singh, who portrays undercover spy Hamza Ali Mazari.
Before entering the world of cinema, Mustafa was a well-regarded strength and conditioning coach in Bollywood. He trained several prominent actors, including Ranveer Singh, Vicky Kaushal, Yami Gautam, and Hrithik Roshan, helping them prepare physically for demanding roles.
Mustafa’s own beginnings, however, were far more modest. Raised in an Afghani background and dealing with dyslexia, he dropped out of formal education early. “I wasn’t a bright kid but I was always physical,” he said while speaking on Jag Of All Trades podcast, recalling how sports and movement came naturally to him.
At 21, he was already earning Rs 1 lakh a month as a call centre team leader, but a chance encounter at a Janakpuri gym proved life-changing. After helping a woman who had been ignored by a trainer, he later received a letter from her crediting fitness with rekindling her marriage, urging him to pursue it as his true calling.
Despite resistance from family and being labelled “crazy” for quitting a stable job, Mustafa started from scratch, taking up a Rs 10,000-a-month gym role in West Delhi. His breakthrough came at Fitness First, where within three months he became one of the top trainers in Asia, handling up to 14 sessions a day and earning over Rs 1.4 lakh a month by 2009.
Mustafa questioned why Indian trainers lacked recognition compared to their international counterparts. His confidence and commitment helped him establish a strong presence in the industry. He worked closely with actors to prepare them for challenging roles, including Ranveer Singh’s transformation for Padmaavat and physical conditioning for Vicky Kaushal and Yami Gautam.
His transition into acting was encouraged by director Aditya Dhar, who saw potential in him beyond fitness coaching. Mustafa has expressed gratitude for Dhar’s support and friendship, which helped him embrace new opportunities in front of the camera.
Mustafa Ahmed’s story is one of resilience and passion. From a gym trainer earning Rs 10,000 a month to a respected actor and celebrity trainer, his journey reflects determination and a willingness to follow his calling despite challenges.
