Honorary Captain Babban Ram, a resident of Ghazipur district in Uttar Pradesh, has set an inspiring benchmark in competitive sports at the age of 68. After serving nearly three decades in the Indian Army, when most people transition into a quiet retired life, Babban Ram launched a remarkable second innings on the track and in the swimming pool. Returning to competitive sports 12 years after retiring from the military in 2009, this veteran athlete has bagged approximately 50 medals through unwavering dedication and military discipline.
From Army Gunner to Command-Level Sports Achievements
Hailing from Rampur alias Sadhopur village in Ghazipur, Babban Ram initially enlisted in the 150 Field Regiment of the Indian Army as a gunner. Through sheer hard work and perseverance, he rose through the ranks to achieve the position of Honorary Captain. During his tenure in the armed forces, his commanding officer at the time, Colonel Gurbakhsh Singh Sihota, recognized his athletic potential and motivated him to take up sports. Taking that encouragement to heart, Babban Ram began competing in swimming and athletics events, earning numerous medals in competitions ranging from the regimental level up to command-level tournaments.
Smartphone Tech Opening the Door for a Historic Comeback
Upon completing nearly 30 years of army service in 2009, Captain Babban Ram settled back in his native village. While adapting to civilian life, his son suggested that he start using a smartphone. Exploring the digital world gave him access to information about upcoming veterans' athletics competitions across the country. This technological bridge reignited his passion for sports, leading to his competitive comeback at the National Masters Athletics Championship held in Bareilly in 2021. He marked his return to the track by winning a silver medal in the 100-meter hurdles.
Accumulating 50 Medals and Dominating Veteran Championships
Since his 2021 resurgence, Babban Ram has consistently achieved success across the country, securing around 50 total medals comprising gold, silver, and bronze. He actively competes in two to three national events every year. His versatility was on full display at the 5th Veterans Sports & Games National Championship, where he claimed five medals across both swimming and track disciplines. His medal haul included the 100m freestyle, 50m breaststroke, and 50m freestyle in swimming, along with the 100m hurdles and the 4x400m relay in athletics.
Dawn Routine of Running on the Banks of the Ganges
The cornerstone of his impressive physical endurance at 68 remains the strict discipline honed during his military career. Captain Babban Ram wakes up at around 4:00 AM every single day. His daily fitness regimen includes running on the sandy banks of the Ganga river, swimming in its waters, and practicing yoga. Driven by his unyielding spirit, the veteran captain expresses a firm resolve to continue competing in national-level championships in the coming years.
