Background <p>The rising prevalence of obesity has become a critical global health concern, contributing to the rising burden of non-communicable diseases and a decline in quality of life. India mirrors this trend, driven by rapid urbanization and industrialization that promote high-calorie processed foods and sedentary lifestyles. Amid this, male obesity remains relatively understudied despite its growing prevalence and distinct socioeconomic determinants. Using data from the three rounds of the National Family Health Survey (2005-06, 2015-16 and 2019-21), this study examines the trends and patterns of male obesity across socioeconomic groups and states and decomposes rural-urban disparities in its prevalence.</p> Methods <p>This study employs descriptive, bivariate, spatial and decomposition approaches to examine the pattern of male obesity across socioeconomic groups. To examine the factors contributing to rural-urban disparities, the Fairlie decomposition, an extension of the Oaxaca-Blinder decomposition is employed.</p> Results <p>India witnessed a more than twofold increase in male obesity, rising from 9.8% in 2005-06 to 23.9% in 2019-21. Urban men recorded the highest prevalence while rural men showed a pronounced increase in obesity. Highest prevalence was observed among men aged 35–54 years, those in the minority religious and socially advantaged caste categories (others), with higher education, richest wealth quintiles, currently married, and residents of southern India. At the state level, rural Sikkim and urban Tamil Nadu recorded the highest prevalence, with more pronounced increase observed across several northern and north-eastern states. Wealth, education, age and region were the primary contributors to the rural-urban disparity.</p> Conclusion <p>This study highlights the rising prevalence of male obesity, with its growing spread across socioeconomic groups, underscoring the need for stronger prevention efforts through greater awareness, healthier diets, and increased physical activity.</p>