The Indian sports fraternity is mourning the loss of Raja Randhir Singh, a distinguished figure in Indian athletics and sports administration. Praful Patel, among many others, has expressed deep sadness at his passing, highlighting Singh’s immense contributions to sports. Raja Randhir Singh was a trailblazer, achieving several significant firsts for India. He was a five-time Olympian, representing the country with distinction on the global stage. His athletic prowess was further cemented when he became India’s first-ever Asian Games gold medalist in shooting. This monumental achievement marked a significant milestone for Indian sports, inspiring a generation of athletes. Beyond his individual athletic accomplishments, Singh also made substantial contributions to the administrative side of sports. He holds the unique distinction of being the first Indian to serve as the President of the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA). This role placed him at the forefront of sports governance in the continent, where he worked tirelessly to promote and develop sports across Asia. His tenure as OCA President was characterized by a commitment to excellence and a vision for a stronger, more unified sporting community in the region. Tributes from various personalities in sports and beyond have acknowledged his ‘masterclass in dedication,’ recognizing his dual role as an ‘iconic athlete’ and a ‘legendary’ administrator. This dual legacy underscores the breadth and depth of his impact on Indian and Asian sports. The sports world remembers Raja Randhir Singh not just for his medals and accolades, but for the enduring spirit of sportsmanship and dedication he embodied throughout his life. His passing leaves a void that will be difficult to fill, but his legacy will continue to inspire future generations of athletes and sports leaders. Source: Praful Patel
Praful Patel: Deeply saddened by the passing of Raja Randhir Singh ji, A five-time Olympian, India’s 1st Asian Games shooting gold medalist, and the first Indian President of the Olympic Council of Asia. His life was a masterclass in dedication; both as an iconic athlete and a legendary. #breaking
— @praful_patel May 1, 2026
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