Heartbreak for Indian sports: Manu Bhaker's mentor Jaspal Rana passes away at 49

Rana was admitted to Max Hospital in Delhi's Saket after experiencing discomfort upon returning to India from the ISSF World Cup in Munich.

Doctors reportedly discovered a cardiac blockage and performed a stent surgery.

The celebrated shooter passed away on Thursday night while undergoing treatment.

A second stent procedure was expected to be carried out in the coming days.

A Decorated Shooting Career

Jaspal Rana was one of India's most accomplished pistol shooters and a pioneer of the sport in the country.

Among his key achievements:

• Won multiple gold medals at the Asian Games, Asian Championships and Commonwealth Championships.
• Clinched the gold medal in the 25m Centre Fire Pistol event at the 2006 Asian Games in Doha.
• Secured several international medals and set numerous records during his illustrious career.
• Received the prestigious Arjuna Award in 1994, becoming one of the youngest recipients of the honour.
• Was conferred the Padma Shri in 2001 for his outstanding contribution to Indian sports.

Mentor to a New Generation

Following his retirement from competitive shooting, Rana devoted himself to coaching and talent development.

He played a pivotal role in nurturing India's next generation of shooters and served as a coach with the National Rifle Association of India (NRAI). He was widely credited for mentoring several top athletes, including Olympic medallist Manu Bhaker.

PM Modi Mourns His Passing

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed grief over Rana's demise in a post on X.

"Deeply saddened by the passing of Shri Jaspal Rana Ji. His passing is a profound loss to the world of Indian sports," Modi wrote.

"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," he added.

Sports Minister Pays Tribute

Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya also condoled Rana's death.

"Deeply pained by the passing of Indian shooting legend Shri Jaspal Rana Ji," Mandaviya wrote on X.

"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."