Sep.29 (GMM) Karun Chandhok is today a shadow of the boy who a decade ago dreamed of emulating his heroes.

On a trip to Delhi this week, he revealed to the Daily Pioneer that when he left high school he peaked at 96 kilograms.

"I was told that if I wanted to race I had to lose weight in order to first fit in the car," said Chandhok, who as Team Lotus' reserve driver is tipped to contest India's inaugural grand prix late next month.

"So I lost 26 kg in less than six months and went on to win the Indian national racing championship. I guess that was the turning point for me," added the now 27-year-old, who graduated to British F3 and then GP2.

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