Shashi Tharoor Shares Arjuna Ranatunga's Transformed Look After Bariatric Surgery

Congress MP Shashi Tharoor has shared a photograph with former Sri Lankan cricket captain Arjuna Ranatunga, highlighting the cricketer's dramatic physical transformation following bariatric surgery. The post, shared on social media, quickly drew attention from cricket fans, many of whom found it difficult to recognise the 1996 World Cup-winning captain. Along with the photograph, Tharoor remarked on Ranatunga's new appearance and recalled a light-hearted conversation about the positive impact the surgery has had on his health and daily life.

In his post, Tharoor described Ranatunga as "the new, svelte, post-bariatric surgery Arjuna Ranatunga" and joked about the former captain's well-known stocky physique during his playing career. He said Ranatunga told him that before undergoing the procedure, he could barely bat for three overs in charity matches. Following the surgery, however, he is now able to comfortably remain at the crease for nearly three hours, reflecting a significant improvement in his stamina and physical fitness.

The social media post also renewed public interest in bariatric surgery, a medical procedure primarily recommended for individuals with severe obesity when lifestyle changes alone have not produced sufficient results. Bariatric surgery is not considered a cosmetic treatment but a therapeutic intervention aimed at reducing weight and improving obesity-related health conditions such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, sleep apnoea and heart disease. Eligibility is determined after a comprehensive medical evaluation, with doctors assessing a patient's overall health, body mass index and associated medical conditions.

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Medical experts note that recovery from bariatric surgery involves long-term lifestyle changes, including carefully managed dietary habits, regular physical activity and ongoing medical follow-up. Patients typically progress through different stages of nutrition, beginning with liquids before gradually returning to solid foods. The long-term success of the procedure depends not only on the surgery itself but also on sustained commitment to healthy eating, exercise and routine monitoring under medical supervision.

Ranatunga, one of Sri Lanka's most successful cricket captains, led the national team to its historic ICC Cricket World Cup triumph in 1996. Throughout his playing career, he was known for his tactical leadership and batting ability despite often being the subject of discussions about his physique. His recent transformation has once again brought him into the spotlight, with many cricket followers expressing surprise at his changed appearance.

Tharoor's post has sparked conversations not only about Ranatunga's transformation but also about the broader role of bariatric surgery in improving long-term health and quality of life. While the procedure can significantly enhance mobility, endurance and overall well-being for eligible patients, healthcare professionals emphasise that it should be undertaken only after careful medical assessment and with a commitment to lifelong lifestyle modifications.

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