Bengaluru's ex-beauty queen stuns internet with 30 kg weight loss. How she did it

Economic Times

22-04-2025

Agencies
Who Is Archana Kapoor Nagpal?
Fitness and lifestyle influencer Archana Kapoor Nagpal recently inspired her online community by unveiling her powerful and deeply personal weight loss transformation . Using her Instagram platform, Nagpal posted a heartfelt tribute to her journey by sharing a side-by-side comparison — an older photo depicting her at a heavier weight and a recent image showcasing her dramatically slimmer, healthier self.The visual contrast captured more than just physical change; it reflected a transformative evolution in both body and spirit.Nagpal revealed that she had once weighed 85 kilograms and had managed to bring her weight down to 53 kilograms — a change that, as she expressed, went far beyond appearance. 'From 85 kgs to 53 kgs was a journey, or I must say, a few avatars in one life,' she wrote, describing the process as a profound metamorphosis. Her candid reflection highlighted that the turning point came at the age of 25, a time when she felt directionless and was struggling with significant health issues.Throughout her journey, Nagpal endured multiple surgeries and battled various medical conditions, the most challenging among them being endometriosis — a chronic, painful disorder that affects many women. In her post, she shared that there were moments when life offered her no real choices — only the will to survive and adapt. Her transformation, therefore, wasn't merely about achieving a particular number on the scale; it was about reclaiming her life and well-being.Her emotional words conveyed a strong message: that weight loss was simply a result of something far more important — the desire to live fully. 'It was not about losing weight but gaining life,' she wrote. Her resilience and refusal to look back — then or now — stood as a powerful testament to her strength and determination.Now, as a yoga educator , inclusive wellness advocate , and self-proclaimed fitness enthusiast, Nagpal emphasizes a holistic approach to health. She credits her love for yoga not just for her physical fitness but primarily for strengthening her mental well-being. As she celebrates Yoga Month, she urged her followers to shift their focus from weight loss to life enhancement. 'Don't aim to lose weight; aim to gain life,' she concluded.Archana Kapoor Nagpal's journey is more than an inspiring fitness story; it's a reminder that health is multifaceted and that true wellness comes from healing, inner strength, and the commitment to living with intention and self-love.In her latest picture, Nagpal looked like a vision in a low-cut, off-shoulder dark blue gown, which she paired with a pearl choker.In a separate post on X, the influencer gave a hint as to what she ate on a daily basis. She retweeted a post shared by Bengaluru-based cardiologist Dr. Deepak Krishnamurthy, which showcased three low-fat but satisfying meals, which included a couple of idlis and sambar and daal, two rotis and sabji along with salad for lunch and dinner. Sharing his diet, the doctor wrote that instead of rice ( a food that ranks high in the glycemic index and is known to spike blood sugar), he indulges in yigurt, watermelon juiceand black coffee.'Sharing it as it is worth sharing. I read your story @DrDeepakKrishn1And I must say, I was inspired. I took a quick break of 45 days with a small shift in my life for better fitness. Thank you Doctor…' She wrote, retweeting the X post.Archana Kapoor Nagpal is a celebrated TEDx speaker, a certified practitioner of Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP), and a mindfulness expert. With a rich background in facilitating workshops, she has engaged diverse audiences — from students and corporate professionals to marginalized communities — on a range of transformative topics. In 2022, she led a national initiative across India, empowering over 1,300 young women in just 103 days through a Menstrual Health Awareness and Mindful Living campaign.Recognized as a Certified Self-Love Coach and Communication Strategist, Archana gained notable attention on Radio 94.3 FM in Bangalore, where she was dubbed the city's 'Most Wanted' for her insights into how expressive art forms like writing and visual creativity can aid in mental health and serve as healing tools for individuals battling suicidal thoughts.Born in Cairo, Egypt, Archana spent her early years moving across six different nations, gaining a global perspective from a young age. She holds a Bachelor's degree in English Literature with Honours, and her passion for language led her to pursue a Master's degree in the same field. Her academic journey is enriched by internationally accredited certifications in communication and writing. To further nurture her creative side, she earned a diploma in Creative Writing in English, which strengthened her foundation in the literary world.Archana is also an accomplished author, poet, and columnist, with her literary works translated into seven global languages — including German, Russian, Italian, French, Chinese, Japanese, and Hindi — expanding her reach to international audiences.Before dedicating herself entirely to writing, Archana collaborated with several international brands, contributing to projects in content and storytelling. However, a life-altering accident redirected her path. After enduring 13 surgeries over four decades, she rose with resilience, emerging as the published author of seven inspirational books. Her passion for haiku and micro-poetry has earned her 21 accolades from global literary communities, where she proudly represents India on the world stage.In 2018, she won the title of Mrs. India Karnataka and was also a finalist in the national Mrs. India pageant — a testament to her multifaceted personality. Her sessions are known not just for their depth and insight but also for their energy, creativity, and focus on personality growth. In her downtime, she enjoys immersing herself in books, painting, writing, and exploring new destinations.Archana is the co-founder of the Awespire Foundation, a not-for-profit organization in India that aims to educate and uplift women and girls using interactive animated content and innovative communication strategies. As a committed social entrepreneur, she has led various awareness campaigns and formed teams to implement programs at a grassroots level. She is also a passionate advocate for the LGBTQ+ community, striving to build inclusive platforms through her work and voice.