Ayushmann Khurrana steps in to sponsor shooter Meghana Sajjanar after reading of gear struggles

International rifle shooter Meghana Sajjanar has revealed how Bollywood actor Ayushmann Khurrana quietly stepped in to fund a state-of-the-art rifle for her after reading about her equipment struggles in a newspaper feature, paving the way for her international medal success.

The Bengaluru-based athlete took to social media to share the story of unexpected generosity that transformed her sporting career over the past year.

“A year ago, I was pushing my limits but hitting a wall without world-class equipment. Then, a single article in The Times of India changed everything,” Sajjanar said. “He didn’t know me. We had never met. He just wanted to see an Indian athlete win on the global stage. That rifle levelled the playing field for me, allowing me to train without compromise and take on the best in the world.”

Podium Success and Gratitude

Equipped with the high-grade gear, Sajjanar went on to deliver remarkable performances. In New Delhi, she clinched a team gold and an individual bronze at the Asian Championship while competing eight months pregnant. Following the birth of her daughter, she resumed rigorous training in June and is currently preparing for the upcoming ISSF World Cup in Cairo.

Sajjanar recently met Khurrana in person to express her appreciation. “Today, I finally got to express my gratitude to the man who quietly backed my dreams when I needed it the most. No noise, just pure support for Indian sports,” she wrote.

Actor Hails Real Heroes of Indian Sport

Reacting to the meeting, Khurrana said he was deeply moved after initially learning about her journey and struggles to acquire top-tier gear.

“I am deeply grateful to The Times of India for bringing her journey to my attention. I was genuinely amazed by her talent, determination, and raw ambition,” Khurrana said. “Indian athletes make us incredibly proud on the world stage, and it is our collective responsibility as citizens to support them. Our sportspersons are the real heroes of our country. I’m just happy I could play a tiny part in her journey and see an Indian athlete get the opportunity to conquer the world.”