Raghavendra S. Hondadakeri, popularly known as 'Mutant Raghu', is an Indian powerlifter, strongman athlete, actor, and entrepreneur born in 1986 in Bengaluru, Karnataka. Before entering the world of fitness full-time, he spent 15 years working as an artist in animation and graffiti, creating artworks that still adorn the walls of his gym, Mutante Strength Gym in Bengaluru. He began competing in bodybuilding around 2003 and gradually shifted to powerlifting, where he won national and then international recognition. He became a 5-time World Powerlifting Champion and received the prestigious Kreeda Ratna Award from the Government of Karnataka for his achievements in international powerlifting and strongman competitions. He also won the Jerai Strongman of India title. He first entered entertainment through the cooking reality show Kwatle Kitchen on Colors Kannada, which he won, and then transitioned to acting, appearing in villain roles in Kannada films including Rana, Kranti, Garadi, Kaatera, and Kantara: Chapter 1. In October 2025, he entered Bigg Boss Kannada Season 12 as a wildcard contestant, where his commanding personality made him one of the most discussed housemates. He advanced to the grand finale, finishing fifth overall.

5-time World Powerlifting Champion; Kreeda Ratna Award by the Government of Karnataka; villain role in Kantara: Chapter 1; winner of the cooking reality show Kwatle Kitchen; Bigg Boss Kannada Season 12 finalist.

Frequently Asked