Esha Singh pays emotional tribute to Jaspal Rana, says his legacy will inspire generations
World Cup gold medallist Esha Singh paid an emotional tribute to Jaspal Rana following his death at 49, recalling his encouragement, mentorship and contribution to Indian shooting while describing his influence as a lasting inspiration for generations of athletes.
Hyderabad: World Cup gold medallist Esha Singh from Hyderabad paid rich tributes to one of the all-time greats of Indian shooting Jaspal Rana who passed away at the age of 49.
“There are some people whose presence becomes such a natural part of your journey that it’s hard to imagine the sport without them. Today, I find myself looking back at years of memories, conversations, and moments shared with Jaspal Sir. From seeing him around the range since 2018 to having the privilege of training under him for a period in 2025, his presence was one that felt constant in our sport. Strong, passionate, and deeply invested in Indian shooting.,” Esha wrote on her social media Insta handle with a pic of her with the ace shooter.
“Sir was someone who always carried immense belief in the athletes around him. I will always cherish the times he encouraged me, telling me that I was meant for great things in this sport and reminding me to trust the journey, even on difficult days. Those words meant more than he probably knew,” she wrote.
“Beyond the medals, records, and achievements, his greatest legacy is the impact he had on generations of shooters. His knowledge, guidance, and unwavering commitment to Indian shooting have shaped countless careers and inspired so many of us,” Esha wrote.
“Thank you, Sir, for everything you gave to the sport and to the people within it. Your influence will continue to live on through every athlete whose life you touched. Rest in peace, Jaspal Sir. You will be deeply missed and fondly remembered,” Esha posted 🤍
“It’s definitely so unexpected. It came as a very big shock. We are all grieving. He was such a strong presence. We have what we have today in shooting, the fame and popularity is because of what he has achieved in those daysin 90s when nobody reall got so many medals. He was the that star who brought so much fame to the sport,” Esha said.
“Jaspal Sir is an amazing mentor. It’s definitely so unexpected. He would always tell me that I don’t need anyone training me and I am good all on myown. And, I would say, no I need you. He was somebody who would not say much, very little, but whatever he would say is very powerful,” the champion shooter said.
“We had a camp in Switzerland in May 2024 when I was training with him. That was my memorable moment with him. As I said, very little talk, but he would just ask me to believe in my process and myself and always would repeat the same thing to me. He would say he sees a big dream for me,” Esha said.
