top of page

By:

Bhalchandra Chorghade

11 August 2025 at 1:54:18 pm

Jaspal Rana taught India to aim higher

Indian sport lost one of its finest champions on June 12, 2026, with the untimely passing of shooting legend and coach Jaspal Rana at the age of 49. His death has left a void that will be difficult to fill, not only in Indian shooting but in the hearts of countless athletes, admirers and young dreamers who looked up to him as a symbol of excellence, discipline and perseverance. Born in the hills of Uttarakhand, Rana emerged as a prodigious talent at an age when most children are still...

Jaspal Rana taught India to aim higher

Indian sport lost one of its finest champions on June 12, 2026, with the untimely passing of shooting legend and coach Jaspal Rana at the age of 49. His death has left a void that will be difficult to fill, not only in Indian shooting but in the hearts of countless athletes, admirers and young dreamers who looked up to him as a symbol of excellence, discipline and perseverance. Born in the hills of Uttarakhand, Rana emerged as a prodigious talent at an age when most children are still discovering their interests. By his teens, he had already announced himself on the national stage and over the years he would go on to become one of India’s most decorated shooters. His remarkable achievements at the Asian Games, Commonwealth Championships and international competitions transformed him into a household name and brought unprecedented attention to shooting in India. Yet medals alone do not define Jaspal Rana’s legacy. What truly set him apart was his unwavering commitment to the sport long after his competitive career ended. As a coach, mentor and guide, he devoted himself to nurturing the next generation of Indian shooters. His influence can be seen in the success of numerous athletes, most notably Olympic medallist Manu Bhaker, whose achievements carried the unmistakable imprint of Rana’s guidance and belief. He possessed the rare ability to identify talent, instill confidence and demand excellence without losing sight of the human being behind the athlete. To his students, he was more than a coach. He was a teacher, protector and source of strength during moments of doubt. To colleagues, he was a respected professional whose passion for Indian sport was evident in every conversation and every training session. To fans, he represented an era when dedication and hard work could elevate a niche sport into the national spotlight. His sudden departure is a painful reminder of life’s fragility. But while Jaspal Rana is no longer with us, the values he championed — discipline, courage, humility and relentless pursuit of excellence — will continue to inspire generations. India mourns a champion. The shooting fraternity mourns a mentor. His family mourns a beloved husband and father. And the nation bids farewell to a man who spent his life helping others find their aim. Jaspal Rana’s final shot may have been fired, but his legacy will echo through Indian sport for decades to come.

Odisha: Where History, Faith and Art Come Alive

Rich in heritage yet vibrant with modern energy, Odisha remains one of India’s most rewarding travel experiences.

Odisha, on India’s eastern coast along the Bay of Bengal, is a land where history, spirituality, art, architecture, nature and culture come together in harmony. Often called the “Land of Temples”, the state preserves a legacy spanning more than two thousand years. From magnificent temples and ancient caves to serene lakes, golden beaches and vibrant traditions, Odisha offers an unforgettable journey into India’s heritage.


Located between West Bengal, Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, Andhra Pradesh and the Bay of Bengal, Odisha enjoys a unique geographical setting. Its capital, Bhubaneswar, is known as the “Temple City of India” for its concentration of ancient shrines. The landscape includes coastal plains, rivers, forests, hills, wetlands and wildlife sanctuaries. Among its natural wonders is Chilika Lake, Asia’s largest brackish-water lagoon, home to migratory birds and the rare Irrawaddy dolphin.


Odisha’s history is closely linked with the ancient kingdom of Kalinga. The region gained worldwide significance through the Kalinga War of 261 BCE between Emperor Ashoka and the people of Kalinga. The devastation of the conflict inspired Ashoka to embrace Buddhism, helping spread its message of peace across Asia. Over the centuries, Odisha flourished under dynasties such as the Mahameghavahanas, Somavamshis, Eastern Gangas and Gajapatis, leaving behind a rich legacy of temples, monuments and artistic achievements.


Among Odisha’s greatest treasures is the sacred Jagannath Temple in Puri. Built in the 12th century by King Anantavarman Chodaganga Deva of the Eastern Ganga Dynasty, it is dedicated to Lord Jagannath, a form of Vishnu, and is one of Hinduism’s four Char Dham pilgrimage sites. Renowned for its wooden deities of Jagannath, Balabhadra and Subhadra, the temple symbolises inclusiveness and universal spirituality. Every year, millions gather for the grand Rath Yatra, when the deities are carried through the streets on enormous chariots.


The Konark Sun Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of the finest examples of mediaeval Indian architecture. Built in the 13th century by King Narasimhadeva I, it was designed as a colossal stone chariot dedicated to Surya, the Sun God. Twelve intricately carved wheels and seven stone horses appear to pull the temple across the heavens. Its sculptures depict dancers, musicians, celestial beings, animals and scenes from daily life, reflecting the artistic and cultural richness of ancient Odisha.


In Bhubaneswar, the Lingaraj Temple stands as a masterpiece of Kalinga architecture. Dating to the 11th century, this Shiva temple remains an important pilgrimage centre. Nearby, the Mukteswar Temple is admired for its carved gateway, while the Rajarani Temple is renowned for its graceful sculptures.


Beyond its temples, Odisha offers numerous historical and natural attractions. The Udayagiri and Khandagiri Caves provide insights into the region’s early religious history, while Puri is celebrated for both its sacred temple and golden beaches. Nature lovers are drawn to Similipal National Park, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve known for its forests, waterfalls, elephants, tigers and biodiversity.


Odisha’s artistic heritage is among the richest in India. Temple sculptures, renowned for their beauty and symbolism, depict gods, dancers, warriors, animals and scenes from daily life. Odisha is also the birthplace of Odissi, one of India’s oldest classical dance forms, inspired by temple sculptures. Traditional arts such as Pattachitra painting, silver filigree work, stone carving, appliqué crafts and handloom weaving continue to flourish.


The state’s vibrant festivals add another dimension to its cultural identity. While the Rath Yatra is its most famous celebration, festivals such as Raja Parba, Boita Bandana, Chandan Yatra, Durga Puja, Makar Mela and the Konark Dance Festival showcase Odisha’s traditions, maritime heritage and artistic excellence.


In recent years, Odisha has emerged as one of India’s most dynamic tourism destinations. Improved infrastructure, enhanced air connectivity, heritage conservation initiatives and ecotourism projects have increased its appeal to travellers worldwide. The state has successfully promoted heritage, wildlife, beach and tribal tourism while preserving its unique cultural character.


The best time to visit Odisha is between October and March, while travellers wishing to experience the Rath Yatra can plan their visit during June or July.


Odisha is far more than a destination; it is a living museum of India’s history, faith, art and natural beauty. Whether marvelling at the stone chariot of Konark, experiencing the devotion of Puri, exploring the temples of Bhubaneswar or watching dolphins in Chilika Lake, visitors discover a state that leaves an enduring impression. Rich in heritage yet vibrant with modern energy, Odisha remains one of India’s most rewarding travel experiences.

 

(The writer is a tourism professional and runs a company, Global Voyages. She could be contacted at goglobalvoyages@gmail.com. Views personal.)

Comments

bottom of page