Paddy Chougule.
For many, being compared to a star can become a label. For Panddurang Chougule, it became a conversation starter, but never the full story. Popularly recognised as "Junior Hardik Pandya" because of his striking resemblance to Indian cricket star Hardik Pandya and his work as Hardik Pandya's body double for select shoots and campaigns, Paddy has steadily built his own identity across fitness, entrepreneurship and entertainment.
In a candid conversation, Panddurang Chougule opens up about recognition, discipline and building a career beyond resemblance.
Q: Most people know you as "Junior Hardik Pandya." How do you view that title?
Paddy Chougule:
Honestly, I see it as a compliment. Hardik Pandya is a huge personality and athlete, so naturally being compared to him catches attention. My resemblance to him and working as his body double gave me visibility, and I'm grateful for that. But I always wanted people to know that beyond the face similarity, there is my own story, my own work and my own journey.
Q: How did the opportunity to become Hardik Pandya's body double happen?
Paddy Chougule:
It happened very organically. People around me kept pointing out the resemblance. Over time, professional opportunities started coming in because of that similarity. My fitness level, athletic build and confidence on camera helped too. From there, I got opportunities to work on select shoots and projects connected to Hardik. It was definitely a big turning point in my career.
Q: Did that instantly change things for you professionally?
Paddy Chougule:
It gave me recognition, yes. People started noticing me more. Media conversations started. But recognition alone is temporary. I knew if I wanted longevity, I had to build substance. That's where my work in fitness and entrepreneurship became important.
Q: Tell us about that side of your career.
Paddy Chougule:
Fitness changed my life. It gave me discipline, focus and confidence. Starting my own fitness centres was a natural extension of that passion. I wanted to build something meaningful, something that inspires transformation in others too. That entrepreneurial side is very close to my heart.
Q: What's next for Paddy Chougule?
Paddy Chougule:
Growth. In every form. More work in entertainment, more expansion in fitness and more opportunities to build my own identity. If people first know me as Junior Hardik Pandya, that's fine. But I want them to stay because of Paddy Chougule.
For more information, explore his Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/jr.hardikpandyaa93
