File pic: Manu Bhaker with Jaspal Rana (Image credit: Bhaker’s X post)
NEW DELHI: Double Olympic medalist Manu Bhaker on Saturday paid tribute to her former coach Jaspal Rana, calling his death an “irreparable loss” and remembering the man who she said understood her better than most.Bhaker shared a series of photos with the shooter-turned-instructor aboard AirplaneRana, one of India’s most successful bowlers and an influential coach, has died at the age of 49. He had recently undergone a stent procedure after experiencing chest pain in late May and was taken to hospital, where he died despite medical intervention.
Bhaker remembers his mentor and friend
The 24-year-old, who created history at the Paris Olympics when she became the first post-independence Indian to win two medals in a single edition of the Games, credited Rana for helping her rediscover confidence during one of the most challenging phases of her career.“I still can’t believe it. It’s unbelievable news. I’m having a hard time digesting it,” Bhaker told Olympics.com on Friday. “He was not only my coach, mentor or mentor, but also a friend who understood me better than most.”
Their association, which witnessed highs and lows, eventually evolved into one of the most notable comeback stories in Indian sports. Bhaker and Rana reunited before the Paris Olympics, and the partnership yielded historic results.
A partnership that brought Olympic glory
Bhaker recalled how Rana’s approach went beyond technical direction and helped her get through difficult moments.“There were times when he was strict, and there were times when he simply listened,” she said.
“He always wanted the best from me, even when I didn’t understand it at the time. Looking back now, every lesson he taught me had a purpose.”Speaking about their reunion, Bhaker said it felt like he was “coming home”.“He knew when I was confident, when I was nervous, and when I needed support. He always found a way to bring out the best in me,” she said.Rana’s death has left the Indian sporting fraternity mourning the loss of one of its finest shooters and coaches, while Bhaker’s heartfelt tributes underscored the deep bond they shared on and off the shooting range.
