• Padma Shri (2013): Awarded by the Government of India for his outstanding contributions to sports. • Arjuna Award (2008): Recognized for his excellence in sports.
Bajrang Lal Takhar is an Indian rower from Rajasthan who won India's first-ever individual gold medal in rowing at the Asian Games. A former Naib Subedar in the Rajputana Rifles regiment of the Indian Army, he has been recognized with the prestigious Padma Shri and Arjuna Award for his accomplishments.
Early life and background
- Origin: Born in the Sikar district of Rajasthan on January 5, 1981, Takhar's athletic career was supported by his military service in the Indian Army.
- Military career: He served in the Rajputana Rifles regiment, a role he successfully balanced with his demanding rowing schedule before retiring.
Sporting achievements
- 2010 Asian Games (Guangzhou): This was his most significant achievement, where he won the gold medal in the men's single sculls event, a historic first for Indian rowing. He won with a time of 7:04.78, beating the competition with a significant lead.
- 2006 Asian Games (Doha): He won a silver medal in the single sculls event, which was also a first for India in individual rowing at the Asian Games.
- 2014 Asian Games (Incheon): Takhar added a bronze medal to his collection as part of the men's eight team.
- 2007 Asian Championships (Korea): He secured a gold medal in the single sculls.
- 2006 South Asian Games (Sri Lanka): Takhar was a top performer here, winning two gold medals in the single and double scull races.
- 2008 Olympics (Beijing): He represented India in the men's single sculls but did not reach the finals, finishing 21st overall.
Awards and recognition
- Padma Shri (2013): Awarded by the Government of India for his outstanding contributions to sports.
- Arjuna Award (2008): Recognized for his excellence in sports.
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