Shooter Dadi, whose real name was Chandro Tomar, has died due to COVID-19. She was aged 89. She was admitted to a hospital in Meerut earlier this week after she complained of breathing issues.
Reacting to her death, Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri tweeted, “An epitome of gender equality & champion of women’s rights Smt Chandro Tomar, known as ‘Shooter Dadi’ by her fans & admirers is no more. The courage with which she challenged patriarchy & took up shooting as a sport will inspire generations to come.
Condolences to her family.”
Actor Bhumi Pednekar tweeted, “Devastated by the news of Chandro Dadi’s demise. Feels like a part of me is gone. She made her own rules & paved the path for many girl to find their dream. Her legacy will live on in them. Condolences to the family. Am lucky I got to know and be her.”
Shooter Dadi had picked up shooting after turning 60 and went on to win several competitions. This had inspired Bollywood to make a film on her. Film Saand Ki Aankh starring Taapsee Pannu and Bhumi Pednekar was about Shooter Dadi and her sister Prakashi Tomar, also one of the oldest shooters in the world The film had become a huge commercial hit.
Shhoter Dadi had also appeared on The Kapil Sharma Show in 2019 to promote the film Saand Ki Aankh.