Kabaddi player Rana Balachauria dies after being shot at minutes before key match in Mohali
Rana Balachauria shooting: Eyewitnesses said a group of men arrived at the venue in a Bolero vehicle and opened fire as the teams were entering the field.
A kabaddi player was critically injured after unidentified gunmen opened fire during a kabaddi match in Mohali on Monday, triggering panic at a venue packed with spectators. Rana Balachauria, whose real name is Kanwar Digvijay Singh, was also one of the organisers of the event.
The incident occurred around 5.30 pm at a ground in Sector 82, where a kabaddi tournament was underway. As per the latest update from Fortis Hospital in Mohali, the 30-year-old kabbadi player was declared dead as he was brought to the hospital for treatment.
“We are deeply saddened to confirm that Mr. Kanwar Digvijay Singh, a 30-year-old Kabaddi player, was brought to Fortis Hospital Mohali at 6:05 PM on 15th December 2025 with gunshot injuries. Despite immediate clinical assessment, he was declared brought dead. We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family and loved ones during this difficult time," read the official staement by the hospotal.
Shot minutes before match
According to police and eyewitnesses, the match was in progress when gunshots rang out, sending players and spectators scrambling for cover. The sound of the firing was also captured in the live recording of the match.
Balachauria sustained gunshot injuries to the head and face and was immediately rushed to a nearby hospital, where doctors said his condition was critical.
Eyewitnesses said a group of men arrived at the venue in a Bolero vehicle and opened fire as the teams were entering the field.
Initially, many in the crowd mistook the sound for firecrackers, but chaos ensued when it became clear that live rounds had been fired.
Deputy Superintendent of Police HS Bal was the chief guest at the event, and the shooting took place shortly after he had left the venue.
Punjabi singer Mankirat Aulakh, who was on his way to attend the tournament, reportedly turned back after being informed about the incident.
The attackers fled the scene immediately after the firing. Police teams reached the spot soon after and launched a search operation to trace the assailants.
A case has been registered, and investigations are underway to determine the motive behind the attack.
