Indian shooting legend and national coach Jaspal Rana has passed away at the age of 49 in a Delhi hospital, leaving the sporting fraternity in shock. Rana, who played a crucial role in shaping the career of Olympic medalist Manu Bhaker, breathed his last on Thursday night after suffering cardiac complications.
According to National Rifle Association of India (NRAI) President Kalikesh Narayan Singh Deo, Rana passed away while undergoing treatment at Delhi’s Max Hospital. He had recently undergone a stent procedure after doctors detected a blockage in his heart.
Reports suggest that Rana first experienced chest pain and discomfort during the ISSF World Cup in Munich, Germany. Initially believing it to be acidity, he continued with his travel plans. However, the discomfort returned during his flight back to India, prompting immediate medical attention upon landing in Delhi.
His brother, Subash Rana, had earlier informed the media that doctors had successfully inserted a stent to clear the blockage and that a second procedure was planned in the coming days. Rana was reportedly stable and recovering before the tragic news of his death emerged.
Jaspal Rana was widely regarded as one of India’s greatest shooters and most accomplished coaches. He was instrumental in the rise of Manu Bhaker, guiding her to historic success, including her medal-winning performances at the Paris Olympics.
Apart from his coaching achievements, Rana enjoyed a stellar competitive career. He remains one of India’s most successful athletes in Commonwealth Games history, winning multiple medals across four editions of the Games between 1994 and 2006.
One of the defining moments of his career came at the 2006 Asian Games in Doha, where he clinched three gold medals and equalled the world record in the 25m Centre Fire Pistol event.
Rana first announced himself on the international stage in 1994 when he won a gold medal at the World Championships in Milan in the junior category with a world-record score at just 18 years of age.
His contribution to Indian shooting, both as an athlete and mentor, leaves behind a lasting legacy that inspired generations of shooters. His untimely demise marks a huge loss for Indian sports.
