In a remarkable chapter of Indian shooting history, Ashok Pandit and Roopa Unnikrishnan have been hailed as trailblazers for the sport, earning international acclaim with gold medal victories that inspired generations of shooters to come.
Ashok Pandit, known for his precision and consistency, brought glory to India with his stellar performance at the 1982 Asian Games in New Delhi. Competing in the Centre Fire Pistol event, he clinched the individual gold medal, marking a significant achievement in Indian shooting. His calm demeanor under pressure and dedication to the sport made him a standout figure in India’s early shooting success.
Roopa Unnikrishnan followed suit with an equally inspiring trajectory. A national champion in rifle shooting and a Rhodes Scholar, she carved a niche for herself internationally. She won the gold medal in the Women’s 50m Rifle Prone event at the 1999 Commonwealth Shooting Championships. Roopa’s achievement not only highlighted her personal excellence but also opened doors for many women in Indian shooting sports, encouraging female participation on a larger scale.
Together, Ashok Pandit and Roopa Unnikrishnan are credited with laying a strong foundation for Indian shooting at the global level. Their successes in international competitions during a time when Indian shooting had limited global visibility played a key role in building the momentum that led to India’s rise as a shooting powerhouse in the 21st century.
Their pioneering journeys continue to inspire young athletes, proving that discipline, determination, and unwavering focus can lead to world-class success — even in disciplines that once had minimal recognition in India.
