Rajpura’s Rani strikes gold in 10m pistol shooting

Leela Rani, 54, an employee of United India Insurance Company Limited, has brought glory to Punjab by clinching a gold medal in the 10-metre pistol shooting event at the National Masters Games 2025 that were held in Dharamsala, Himachal Pradesh.

Representing Punjab, Rani triumphed over competitors from 23 states, proving that passion and perseverance know no age. Hailing from Rajpura, she steadily built her reputation as a formidable shooter while balancing a full-time job and family responsibilities.

Rani, who began her career in 1998, has won five tourneys in the 10-meter pistol category, including Solvo Cup (2023, Punjab), Abhinandan Cup (2023, Rohtak), and district-level competitions in Patiala.

She also secured top honours in the “Kheda Watan Punjab Diyan” (2023-24) and a silver at the 2024 State Level Championship.

Rani said winning gold for India remains her ultimate goal. “I live this dream every day. When I practice, I imagine the tricolour soaring high,” she said.