DSJA pays tribute to shooting legends Raja Randhir Singh and Jaspal Rana

Rakesh Thapliyal 

New Delhi: The Delhi Sports Journalists Association (DSJA) on Saturday organised a condolence meet to pay tributes to two towering figures of Indian shooting – late Raja Randhir Singh and Jaspal Rana – remembering their immense contributions as shooters, coaches, mentors and sports administrators.

Speakers highlighted Randhir Singh’s pioneering role in Indian sports administration and his contribution to the growth of shooting in the country, while Rana was hailed for his extraordinary achievements as a champion shooter and coach, whose mentorship played a vital role in Manu Bhaker’s historic two bronze medals at the Paris Olympics.

Senior journalists, sports personalities and members of the shooting fraternity shared vivid memories and anecdotes. Veteran journalist Norris Pritam recalled several fond moments with both legends, while tributes were also paid by senior journalists V Krishnaswamy, G Rajaraman, Vipin Bahuguna, Rakesh Thapliyal, Digvijay Singh Deo and Vinayak Padmadeo. Star shooters Ronjan Sodhi and Anjum Moudgil recollected their association with Raja Randhir Singh and Jaspal Rana.

DSJA secretary Sabi Hussain gave the opening remarks, while treasurer Roushan Jha offered the concluding address

On the occasion, the tributes were also paid to sports journalists who recently passed away — C S Ramachandran, S Santhanam, Kewal Kaushik, Suresh Kaushik, Ravikant Singh and Aadesh Gupta.

The memorial meet was attended by Randhir Singh’s wife Rani Uma Singh, daughter Rajkumari Mahima Kumari and granddaughter Siya, and Rana’s brother Subhash. Several sports journalists also paid their respects, remembering the enduring legacy left behind by the two icons of Indian Sports.