Nicholai Sachdev is not your average public figure. He’s a man who has built a life around two very different worlds—art and athletics. Born and raised in Mumbai, Nicholai is known for his work as a gallerist and his achievements as a competitive powerlifter. He owns Gallery 7, one of Mumbai’s most respected art galleries, and has earned medals in national powerlifting championships. But beyond the titles and trophies, Nicholai’s story is one of passion, resilience, and reinvention.
In recent years, his name has surfaced in headlines not just for his professional success, but also for his personal life. His engagement and marriage to South Indian actress Varalaxmi Sarathkumar sparked both admiration and controversy. Yet, through it all, Nicholai has remained grounded, focused on his work, his daughter, and his commitment to living life on his own terms.
Age & Early Life
Nicholai was born in the year 1983 in Mumbai, India. As of March 2025, he is 42 years old. His full name is Arunov Nicholai Sachdev, though he is commonly known as Nicholai. He has spent most of his life in Mumbai, a city that has shaped both his artistic and athletic pursuits.
Nicholai’s childhood was steeped in creativity. His parents, Arun and Chandra Sachdev, were both respected gallerists, and their home was filled with paintings, sculptures, and conversations about art. From the age of two, Nicholai showed a strong interest in visual expression. He would often sit quietly in his parents’ gallery, watching visitors and artists interact. This early exposure laid the foundation for his lifelong love of art.
Family Background
Nicholai’s father, Arun Sachdev, was a writer and editor of an art magazine. His mother, Chandra Sachdev, was a fine artist trained at the J.J. School of Art and Kala Bhavan in Santiniketan. She studied under Somnath Hore, a legendary figure in Indian art. Together, they founded Gallery 7 in Mumbai, which became a hub for modern and contemporary Indian artists.
Growing up in this environment, Nicholai absorbed not just the aesthetics of art, but also the discipline and dedication it required. His parents didn’t push him into the field—they simply allowed him to explore it on his own. That freedom helped him develop a personal connection to art that went beyond business.
Nicholai Sachdev – Wiki Profile
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Nicholai Sachdev |
| Profession(s) | Gallerist, Powerlifter |
| Date of Birth | 1983 (Exact date not publicly known) |
| Age (as of 2025) | 42 Years |
| Birthplace | Mumbai, India |
| Hometown | Mumbai, India |
| Nationality | Indian |
| Height | 6’6″ (198 cm) |
| Weight | 90 Kg (198.4 lbs) |
| Eye Colour | Black |
| Hair Colour | Black |
| Parents | Arun Sachdev (Father), Chandra Sachdev (Mother) – Both Gallerists |
| Children | Daughter – Kasha Sachdev (Powerlifter) |
| Marital Status | Engaged to actress Varalaxmi Sarathkumar (as of March 2024) |
| First Marriage | Kavita Sachdev (Model) – Married in 2006, Divorced in 2019 |
| Fiancée | Varalaxmi Sarathkumar (Actress) |
| Engagement Date | 1 March 2024 |
| Marriage Date | July 2024 |
| Medals in Powerlifting | 2023: Gold (Bench Press), Silver (Deadlift) – Open Powerlifting Championship |
Passion for Art
Nicholai’s passion for art wasn’t just inherited—it was earned. At 16, when most teenagers were focused on school or social life, he was attending exhibitions and studying brushwork. His first purchase, the Gaitonde abstract, wasn’t just a financial investment—it was a personal milestone. It showed that he understood the emotional and historical value of art.
Over the years, Nicholai built a diverse collection that included works by M.F. Husain, S.H. Raza, and other leading Indian artists. He didn’t collect for status or resale—he collected because he loved the stories behind each piece. His taste leaned toward modern and abstract styles, but he also appreciated traditional forms and emerging voices.
Gallery 7 – Mumbai’s Cultural Gem
Gallery 7 was founded by Arun and Chandra Sachdev in 1979 in Mumbai’s Fort district. It started as a modest space for local artists but quickly grew into one of the city’s most respected galleries. When Nicholai took over, he brought new energy and ideas. He expanded the gallery’s reach, curated bold exhibitions, and introduced younger artists to the mainstream.
Gallery 7 showcases a wide range of styles—from abstract and figurative to landscape and sculpture. It hosts regular exhibitions, artist talks, and workshops. The gallery has featured works by legends like Husain and Raza, as well as rising stars in the Indian art scene. Nicholai’s curatorial style is inclusive and experimental, often blending traditional themes with modern techniques.
Transition to Powerlifting
Nicholai’s move into powerlifting surprised many. Art and athletics don’t often mix, but for him, they were both forms of discipline and self-expression. He began training seriously in the early 2020s, focusing on strength, endurance, and technique. His tall frame—6 feet 6 inches—gave him a natural advantage, but it was his dedication that made the difference.
Nicholai didn’t start powerlifting to compete—he started to heal. Years of sitting, stress, and travel had taken a toll on his body. He wanted to feel strong again, and the gym became his sanctuary. Over time, he built muscle, improved his posture, and gained confidence. In 2021, Nicholai entered the Open Powerlifting Championship and performed well. By 2023, he had won gold in bench press and silver in deadlift.
Achievements in Powerlifting
Sachdev’s powerlifting journey reached a new high in 2023 when he won gold in bench press and silver in deadlift at the Open Powerlifting Championship. These wins were not just personal victories—they were public proof of his dedication and discipline. Competing against seasoned athletes, Nicholai stood out for his technique, strength, and calm focus under pressure.
Nicholai believes that powerlifting is not just about lifting heavy weights—it’s about mental strength, consistency, and self-belief. His training routine includes compound movements, mobility drills, and recovery sessions. He avoids shortcuts and emphasizes proper form, nutrition, and rest. His approach is holistic, combining physical training with mental conditioning.
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Coaching and Mentorship
Nicholai doesn’t keep his knowledge to himself. He coaches young athletes, including his daughter Kasha, who has become a gold medalist in her own right. His coaching style is patient and encouraging. He focuses on building confidence, teaching proper technique, and helping kids set realistic goals.
Kasha’s journey in powerlifting began when she was just eight years old. After undergoing knee surgery, she started training under her father’s guidance. Today, she competes internationally and has broken records in her weight category. Their bond goes beyond the gym—they support each other emotionally and celebrate each other’s wins.
Physical Appearance
Nicholai stands tall at 6 feet 6 inches (198 cm) and weighs around 90 kg (198.4 lbs). His height gives him a commanding presence, both in the gym and at public events. He maintains a lean but muscular build, which reflects his balanced approach to fitness.
He has black hair and black eyes, and is known for his tattoos and piercings. His left earlobe and nose are pierced, and he sports multiple tattoos that reflect his personal beliefs and experiences. These features have become part of his identity and are often discussed in media coverage.
Marriage and Relationships
Nicholai married model and fitness instructor Kavita Sachdev in 2006. Their marriage lasted for 13 years and ended in 2019 due to personal differences. They have a daughter, Kasha, who remains close to both parents. Kavita and Nicholai have maintained a respectful relationship post-divorce.
In March 2024, Nicholai got engaged to South Indian actress Varalaxmi Sarathkumar. The engagement was held in Mumbai and attended by close friends and family. Their relationship had been a long-standing friendship that eventually turned into love. The couple married in July 2024 in a dual ceremony—South Indian and Christian traditions were both honored.
Daughter – Kasha Sachdev
Kasha Nia Sachdev, Nicholai’s daughter from his first marriage to model Kavita Sachdev, is a rising star in the world of powerlifting. Her journey began at age eight when she underwent two corrective surgeries for knock-knees. The condition made walking difficult, and she often tripped over her own feet. After surgery, her father introduced her to strength training as part of her rehabilitation.
Kasha’s transformation was remarkable. From a shy and unstable child, she grew into a confident and strong athlete. Her story has been featured in interviews and articles, where she speaks openly about the physical and emotional challenges she overcame.
Relationship with Varalaxmi Sarathkumar
Nicholai and Varalaxmi Sarathkumar have known each other for over 14 years. Their friendship began in professional circles and slowly grew into a deep emotional connection. In March 2024, they got engaged in a traditional ceremony in Mumbai, followed by a wedding in Thailand in July.
Their relationship is built on mutual respect and shared values. Varalaxmi has spoken publicly about how Nicholai supports her career and understands her personality. She describes him as kind, thoughtful, and emotionally intelligent.
Controversies and Criticism
Nicholai’s decision to marry again drew criticism from some corners of the internet. Trolls targeted his appearance, tattoos, and personal history. Some questioned his choice to remarry and raised concerns about his past relationship with Kavita.
However, Nicholai remained calm and did not respond to the negativity. He focused on his work and family, letting his actions speak louder than words. Varalaxmi addressed the criticism in interviews, saying that love and happiness should not be judged.
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