How a top Deloitte India executive beat Type 2 diabetes and broke free from medicines with new fitness routine

In the early 2000s, Dhiraj Bhandary’s career was marked by long hours and frequent travel, habits that took a toll on his health. His lifestyle, characterized by late-night work and frequent pizza binges, seemed typical for a young professional navigating a demanding career. It wasn’t until 2018 that his life took a dramatic turn for the Deloitte India partner.
In 2018, Dhiraj received a shocking diagnosis: a life-threatening infection known as Fournier’s gangrene and type 2 diabetes. This rare and severe bacterial infection led to an urgent hospital admission, where doctors informed him that his condition could have been fatal if not for timely intervention. Alongside the infection, his blood tests revealed high cholesterol and glucose levels.

The gravity of the situation served as a wake-up call for Dhiraj. Faced with the reality of his health issues, he recognized the need for a significant lifestyle overhaul. This was not just a matter of improving his diet but a complete rethinking of his daily habits. Deloitte India CEO Romal Shetty in a LinkedIn post had also mentioned about Dhiraj Bhandary in his #InspiredBy series. According to Deloitte website, Dhiraj currently leads the client cxecutives program for Deloitte South Asia.

Dhiraj Bhandary’s Turning Point

Determined to reclaim his health, Dhiraj embarked on a journey of transformation. He made substantial changes to his diet, cutting out unhealthy foods and embracing a more balanced approach to nutrition. Simultaneously, he incorporated regular exercise into his routine, starting with cycling. Remarkably, just two months post-surgery, he completed a 100-kilometer (62-mile) bike ride—a feat that astonished even his doctors,

Before the pandemic, Dhiraj had casually participated in 10-kilometer marathons. However, as the world adapted to the new normal, he turned his attention to running with renewed discipline. His initial foray into running expanded from 10 kilometers to 13, then 23, and eventually to full marathons. The challenge of long-distance running became a passion, and he began self-training for more ambitious races.

Embracing Running as a Lifestyle

By 2020, Dhiraj had fully embraced running. He joined a program which focused on managing diabetes through diet and exercise. The program’s online format allowed him to track his progress and maintain motivation. Following this holistic approach, Dhiraj reversed his diabetes and went off medication, demonstrating significant improvement in his health.Dhiraj’s dedication led him to run numerous races, including 85 half marathons and four full marathons in the past four years. He averaged one half marathon a month, a testament to his unwavering commitment. In 2023 alone, he covered over 1,700 kilometers, a staggering achievement reflecting his dedication to fitness.

The Impact of Running on Life and Work

Running has become more than just a hobby for Dhiraj; it’s integrated into his daily life. He starts each day at 4:00 a.m., dedicating an hour to running before beginning his workday. This routine not only enhances his physical health but also boosts his mental clarity and productivity.

His transformation has inspired others, including his family. His wife, Deeksha, joined him on his fitness journey, running her first half marathon in February. Dhiraj’s commitment has also motivated his 12-year-old son to take up running, fostering a family culture of health and activity.

Balancing Fitness and Enjoyment

Despite his rigorous fitness routine, Dhiraj maintains a balanced approach to life. He still indulges in occasional treats like pizza and halwa, recognizing that a sustainable lifestyle involves moderation. His story highlights that achieving optimal health doesn’t require complete deprivation but rather a balanced approach to diet and exercise.

Professional Success and Personal Growth

The shift in Dhiraj’s lifestyle has positively impacted his professional life. The enhanced energy and positivity resulting from his fitness regime have translated into increased efficiency and satisfaction at work. Throughout his fitness journey, Dhiraj has faced various challenges, including injuries and the need to adapt his routine.

Speaking to South China Post, Dhiraj revealed his role model: Eliud Kipchoge, the Kenyan long-distance runner and Olympic champion, embodies the qualities Dhiraj admires: resilience, discipline, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.

Advice for Aspiring Runners

For those inspired by Dhiraj’s journey and looking to start their own fitness path, he offers straightforward advice: begin with small steps. Start with a run-walk routine, gradually increasing distance as your stamina improves. Compete with yourself rather than others, find a supportive community, and stay consistent. Dhiraj’s experience underscores that success in running—and in life—comes from perseverance, self-belief, and enjoying the process.