Abhinav Bindra Biography: Life Story, Career, Family, Records & Achievements
Introduction
Abhinav Bindra is a name etched in Indian sporting history as the nation’s first-ever individual Olympic gold medalist. Winning the gold in 10m Air Rifle at the 2008 Beijing Olympics, Bindra fulfilled a long-awaited dream for India. Known for his discipline, focus, and scientific approach to training, he became a pioneer in Indian shooting and inspired generations of athletes.
Personal Information
Full Name & Birth Details
- Full Name: Abhinav Bindra
- Date of Birth: 28 September 1982
- Birthplace: Dehradun, Uttarakhand, India
Nationality & Zodiac Sign
- Nationality: Indian
- Zodiac Sign: Libra
Physical Appearance
- Height: 5 feet 8 inches (173 cm)
- Weight: Approx. 65 kg
- Build: Lean, Athletic
Bindra’s calm posture and steady composure were his greatest assets as a shooter.
Early Life & Family Background
Childhood & Parents
Abhinav was born into a well-off Punjabi family. His father, Dr. Apjit Bindra, was a businessman, and his mother, Babli Bindra, was a homemaker.
Family Influence & Support
His parents played a crucial role in his journey, building a shooting range in their home to help him train with international standards.
Education Journey
Abhinav studied at Doon School, Dehradun, and later at St. Stephen’s School, Chandigarh. He pursued a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from the University of Colorado, USA, balancing academics with shooting.
Introduction to Shooting
Early Training
Bindra began shooting at the age of 15, showing remarkable promise. His precision and concentration caught the attention of national coaches.
Rise as a Junior Shooter
By 1998, he was the youngest Indian participant at the 1998 Commonwealth Games. His early international experience shaped him into a determined competitor.
Rise in Professional Shooting
Bindra’s rise was marked by years of dedication and sacrifice. Unlike many athletes, he focused heavily on scientific training, using advanced technology, biomechanics, and psychology to perfect his game.
National Career Highlights
- Multiple-time National Champion in the 10m Air Rifle event.
- Helped popularize shooting as a mainstream sport in India.
International Career Highlights
2004 Athens Olympics Experience
- Despite high hopes, Bindra finished 7th in the finals, missing a medal but gaining valuable experience.
2008 Beijing Olympics Gold
- On 11 August 2008, Bindra won the gold medal in 10m Air Rifle, becoming the first Indian to win an individual Olympic gold medal.
- His score of 700.5 points created history and brought glory to the nation.
2016 Rio Olympics Farewell
- Bindra narrowly missed a medal, finishing 4th in the 10m Air Rifle.
- He retired after Rio, marking the end of a glorious two-decade-long career.
Records & Milestones
- First Indian individual Olympic gold medalist (2008 Beijing Olympics).
- Former World Champion (2006 Zagreb World Championships).
- Competed in five consecutive Olympics (2000–2016).
- Inspired India’s golden era in shooting sports.
Awards & Honors
- Padma Bhushan (2009) – India’s third-highest civilian award.
- Padma Bhushan (2009) – India’s third-highest civilian award.
- Padma Bhushan (2009) – India’s third-highest civilian award.
- Padma Bhushan (2009) – India’s third-highest civilian award.
- Padma Bhushan (2009) – India’s third-highest civilian award.
Beyond Shooting
Post-retirement, Bindra turned into an entrepreneur and sports promoter. He founded the Abhinav Bindra Foundation, which supports sports science and training for athletes across India. He also authored his autobiography, “A Shot at History”.
Personal Life
Known for his discipline and private lifestyle, Bindra has always kept his personal life away from the spotlight. He enjoys reading, fitness, and mentoring young athletes.
Legacy & Inspiration
Abhinav Bindra’s Olympic gold changed Indian sports forever. He proved that with focus, preparation, and self-belief, Indian athletes can succeed at the highest level. His journey continues to inspire India’s shooters and athletes across disciplines.
FAQs about Abhinav Bindra
Q1: When was Abhinav Bindra born?
A: 28 September 1982, in Dehradun, Uttarakhand.
Q2: What is Abhinav Bindra famous for?
A: He is India’s first individual Olympic gold medalist in shooting (2008 Beijing).
Q3: How many Olympics did Abhinav Bindra compete in?
A: Five Olympics (2000, 2004, 2008, 2012, 2016).
Q4: What are Abhinav Bindra’s key achievements?
A: Olympic gold (2008), World Championship gold (2006), multiple Commonwealth & Asian Games medals.
Q5: What awards has Abhinav Bindra received?
A: Arjuna Award, Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna, Padma Bhushan.
Q6: What is Abhinav Bindra doing now?
A: He runs the Abhinav Bindra Foundation, focusing on sports science and athlete development.
