Havildar Soman Rana’s life took a significant turn on December 1, 2006, when a landmine explosion occurred during a routine patrol along the Line of Control in Jammu & Kashmir. The incident resulted in a below-knee amputation, which abruptly ended his promising career as a national-level amateur boxer. Despite this life-changing event, Rana’s determination to continue participating in sports remained unwavering.

Before the explosion, Rana had been a part of the 28 Gorkha Rifles and had gained recognition for his boxing abilities. He was known for his impressive physical strength and agility, regularly competing in military and national boxing events. However, the injury forced him into rehabilitation at the Artificial Limb Centre in Pune, posing challenges that would test his resolve.

A Remarkable Return to Sport

Nearly two decades later, on August 1, 2026, in Glasgow, Rana achieved an extraordinary milestone at the Commonwealth Games 2026. Competing at the Scotstoun Stadium, the 43-year-old athlete won the Men’s Shot Put F57 Gold by launching the shot put a distance of 13.40 metres. This victory marked his return to competitive sports, showcasing not only his perseverance but also his adaptability in facing life’s adversities.

After his injury, Rana’s path back to competitive sport began in 2017, when he joined the Army Paralympic Node in Pune. Under the guidance of coach Rakesh Singh Rawat, he transitioned to seated shot put, utilising the upper-body strength he had developed during his boxing days. He mastered the technical aspects of the F57 category, ultimately leading him to the podium at the Commonwealth Games.

Rana’s journey has not been without challenges. He faced several near misses at the international level, finishing just short of a medal at the Paralympics in Tokyo 2020 and Paris 2024. However, he achieved international podium success with a Silver medal at the 2022 Asian Para Games and a Bronze at the 2025 World Para Athletics Championships held in New Delhi.

Indian Podium Sweep in Shot Put Event

Adding to the achievements of the day, fellow athlete Shubham Juyal also made headlines by clinching the Silver medal in the same event with a strong performance, throwing a distance of 13.28 metres. This accomplishment underscored India’s growing prowess in para-athletics, particularly in field events.

Juyal’s journey has also been inspiring; he overcame severe spinal cord injuries resulting from a traffic accident before excelling in seated throw events. Training alongside Rana at the Army Paralympic Node, he quickly adapted and showcased his talent in the para-shot put category.

During the tense final, Juyal pushed Rana to his limits, but it was Rana’s day to shine, culminating in a gold that represented not just athletic triumph but also two decades of relentless fighting spirit. His achievement symbolises hope and resilience for many and reinforces the narrative that overcoming adversity can lead to remarkable success.

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