Nicholai Sachdev is a figure whose identity intersects art, business, fitness and social circles. Based in Mumbai, he has built his reputation as the partner in a well‑known contemporary art gallery, while also cultivating a presence in the world of physical fitness and lifestyle.
His marriage to actress Varalaxmi Sarathkumar in 2024 brought him into broader public focus, though his career and personal story stretch back decades. In this article, we’ll examine his biography, family background, professional ventures, personal life and distinctive traits.
Quick Bio Table
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Nicholai (Arunov) Sachdev |
| Approximate Year of Birth | 1983 (estimate) |
| Age (2025) | ~ 42 years |
| Birthplace | Mumbai, Maharashtra, India |
| Nationality | Indian |
| Profession | Art gallerist, Entrepreneur, Fitness / Power‑lifter |
| Known For | Partner at Gallery 7; powerlifting |
| Height | ~ 6′ 6″ (198 cm) |
| Marital Status | Married to Varalaxmi Sarathkumar (since July 2024) |
| Children | Daughter Kasha (from previous marriage) |
Early Life & Family Background
Nicholai was born into a family steeped in the art world. His parents, Arun and Chandra Sachdev, founded the iconic Gallery 7 in Mumbai, which has been a respected venue for modern and contemporary Indian art. Growing up amidst artists and art events, Nicholai was exposed early to creative networks and gallery operations.
His upbringing in Mumbai provided him both a cultural foundation and business exposure. These roots played a role in shaping his later path as a gallery partner and entrepreneur.
Career: Art & Gallery 7
Gallery 7 and the Family Legacy
Gallery 7, established by his parents, has grown into a landmark in Mumbai’s Kala Ghoda art district. With high‑ceiling gallery space, a mix of established and emerging artists and a reputation among collectors, it remains one of India’s prominent contemporary art venues. Nicholai has worked alongside his mother and family in curating, managing the business, building client relationships and exploring expansion opportunities.
Under his direction, the gallery has embraced modern trends, sought to reach younger collectors, and looked at new geographies. His business acumen in operations, talent‑scouting and marketing has helped elevate the gallery’s standing in a competitive market.
Fitness and Power‑Lifting Pursuits
In parallel to his art business, Nicholai has developed a serious interest in physical fitness and competitive lifting. Standing tall and strong, he competes in power‑lifting events, with medalled results in bench‑press and deadlift categories. He reportedly mentors younger athletes (including his daughter) and is known in certain circles for his dedication to training, discipline and wellness.
This combination of art world sophistication and athletic presence makes his personal brand unique: a gallery‑owner who is equally comfortable in business suits and gym gear.
Personal Life & Relationships
Previous Marriage and Daughter
Nicholai’s first marriage was to a model/fitness instructor named Kavita, around 2006. The couple welcomed a daughter, Kasha, who has shown interest in athletics and training under her father’s guidance. The marriage reportedly ended in 2019 after approximately 13 years, for private reasons. Nicholai has spoken about his daughter’s fitness journey and the training bond they share.
Marriage to Varalaxmi Sarathkumar
In July 2024, Nicholai married actress Varalaxmi Sarathkumar in a ceremony that combined South Indian and Christian traditions, held abroad. The union of a film industry figure and a business‑entrepreneur created extra media attention. At a public event, Nicholai made headlines when he announced that he and his daughter would adopt (or append) the Sarathkumar name, as a gesture of respect to Varalaxmi’s legacy.
The couple have known each other for many years prior to marriage, and their relationship is described in media as grounded in mutual respect and friendship‑turned‑companionship.
Public Persona & Noteworthy Traits
- Low‑profile yet influential: Despite being connected to high‑profile social circles, Nicholai maintains a relatively modest public presence, enabling him to operate in art, fitness and business realms with authenticity rather than celebrity posturing.
- Dual identity: The combination of art‑gallerist and power‑lifter sets him apart in public perception — he bridges refined cultural spaces and athletic/fitness culture.
- Modern values: His decision to adopt his spouse’s family name (or discuss such) and engage in shared legacy narratives reflect evolving marital norms and gender‑equal values in his social circle.
- Entrepreneurial mindset: His leadership in Gallery 7’s business expansion, his training of athletes, and his fitness mentorship all point to an entrepreneurial spirit rooted in both passion and discipline.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Nicholai Sachdev?
He is a Mumbai‑based art gallerist, entrepreneur and fitness enthusiast, partner in Gallery 7, and husband of actress Varalaxmi Sarathkumar.
What business is he involved in?
Primarily art gallery operations (Gallery 7 in Mumbai) and fitness/power‑lifting training.
What is his marital status?
He married Varalaxmi Sarathkumar in July 2024; he has a daughter from a prior marriage.
Does he compete in sports?
Yes — he participates in power‑lifting competitions, has earned medals, and also trains younger athletes.
What is unique about his public image?
The blending of art world credibility, business acumen and athletic commitment make him a somewhat unconventional figure among gallery‑owners. Also his openness to modern marital naming practices garnered attention.
Conclusion
Nicholai Sachdev represents a compelling convergence of tradition and modernity: rooted deeply in the art ecosystem of Mumbai through Gallery 7, while also embracing fitness culture, athletic discipline and contemporary values. His private‑to‑public journey—from family gallery heir to boutique entrepreneur, from athlete to social partner of a film star—offers insight into how multifaceted today’s business personalities can be.
While he may operate mostly behind the scenes compared to many celebrities, his story—of creativity, strength and understated ambition—makes Nicholai a figure whose full narrative is worth exploring.