NEW DELHI: India’s shooting legend Jaspal Rana has passed away at the age of 49.
The news was confirmed by the National Rifle Association of India. Rana died at New Delhi’s Max Hospital, where he had recently undergone stent surgery, according to reports.
Rana was the driving force behind ace shooter Manu Bhaker’s meteoric rise in the sport. Under his guidance, Bhaker won two medals for India at the Paris Olympic Games.
His achievement in Commonwealth Games history was truly remarkable. He won an incredible 15 medals – nine gold, four silver, and two bronze – across the 1994, 1998, 2002, and 2006 editions.
One of his notable performances came at the 2006 Doha Asian Games, where the Indian shooter claimed three gold medals. He also equalled the world record in the 25m Centre Fire Pistol event.
He also received the Arjuna Award in 1994 and the Padma Shri in 1997 for his outstanding contributions to Indian shooting.
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep grief over Rana’s demise, saying his passing was a great loss to the world of Indian sports.
In a post on X, he said: “Deeply saddened by the passing of Shri Jaspal Rana Ji. His passing is a profound loss to the world of Indian sports. He brought immense glory to the nation through his extraordinary achievements in shooting. Equally remarkable was his contribution as a mentor, shaping and guiding young athletes with great dedication. His unwavering commitment to excellence, discipline, and service to the sporting world earned him immense admiration. My thoughts are with his family, friends, and the entire sporting fraternity in this hour of grief. Om Shanti.”
Similarly, Youth Affairs and Sports Minister Dr Mansukh Mandaviya expressed sadness over the passing of Rana.
“Deeply pained by the passing of Indian shooting legend Shri Jaspal Rana Ji. His incredible contributions to our nation, as a champion athlete and an exceptional mentor, leave behind an inspiring legacy. My heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and the sporting fraternity. Om Shanti,” he said in a post on X.
Union Minister for Petroleum and Natural Gas Hardeep Singh Puri also expressed heartfelt condolences to Rana’s family and friends.
