Beyond the Shooting Range: Remembering Jaspal, My Friend and Fierce Critic

Zindagi With Richa

Writer- Yogita Bhayana

Jaspal Rana’s demise is a monumental loss to the country and the countless budding shooters who looked up to him as a mentor. But for me, the vacuum left behind is deeply personal. I have lost a true friend—someone who consistently praised my social work, yet never hesitated to be my biggest critic and share his unfiltered, genuine feedback.

His friendship was subtle but fierce. Whenever we met, he looked past the public figure and focused on my health, offering tips for weight loss and diets with genuine concern for my recurring health issues. He didn’t just claim to be a friend; he proved it through his actions.

We all knew his immense passion for nurturing students. I remember once asking him, “Why are your students so petrified of you when you have such a soft personality?” He smiled warmly and replied, “If I am not tough, I will not get the best out of them.”

Beneath that tough exterior was an emotional, deeply supportive soul who cared profoundly about our country’s issues. Our conversations often gravitated toward current events, where his opinions were as sharp as his aim. I will miss him forever.