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Shooting legend Jaspal Rana dies at 49; PM Modi calls it 'profound loss to Indian sports'

From Hindustan Times · () English

Translated from English, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News From a news agency Outcome reported
  • Renowned Indian pistol shooter and coach Jaspal Rana has died at the age of 49.
  • Rana recently underwent a heart procedure and died at a hospital in Delhi.
  • Prime Minister Narendra Modi and sports officials mourned his passing, highlighting his achievements as a shooter and mentor.

Jaspal Rana, a celebrated Indian pistol shooter and high-performance coach, has died at the age of 49. He passed away on Friday at Max Hospital in Saket, Delhi, following a recent heart procedure.

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.

— Narendra ModiPrime Minister of India mourned the death of the shooting legend.

Rana had experienced chest pain and discomfort during the ISSF World Cup in Munich, which led to a procedure to place a stent in his heart. He was reportedly recovering and was expected to be moved to a private room soon, making his death a shock to many.

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.

— Narendra ModiPrime Minister of India praised Rana's coaching legacy.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep sadness, calling Rana's passing a "profound loss to the world of Indian sports." Modi lauded Rana for bringing "immense glory to the nation through his extraordinary achievements in shooting" and for his remarkable contribution as a mentor who "shap[ed] and guid[ed] young athletes with great dedication."

It is tragic. I am told he was recovering and was due to be shifted to a private room soon. It’s really shocking.

— Pawan SinghNational Rifle Association of India secretary general expressed shock at the news.

Rana's career included winning eight Asian Games and 15 Commonwealth Games medals as a 25m centre fire specialist. After retiring, he played a crucial role in developing Indian shooting, coaching and mentoring talents like Manu Bhaker, Saurabh Chaudhary, and Anish Bhanwala. He received the Dronacharya Award in 2020 for his coaching contributions, notably guiding Manu Bhaker to a historic double bronze at the 2024 Paris Olympics.

Deeply saddened by the untimely passing of Jaspal Rana. A champion, mentor and icon of Indian shooting, Jaspal inspired generations. His contribution to Indian shooting is immeasurable, and his legacy will continue to guide and inspire future champions. Rest in peace, Jaspal.

— Kalikesh Singh DeoNational Rifle Association of India president paid tribute to Rana.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Hindustan Times in English. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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