Chandigarh: Balwinder Singh Dhaliwal, an Arjuna awardee and former Asian Games medallist who was among India's finest shot putters, died here on Monday after a battle with lung cancer. He was 67 years old.
A ten-time national champion between 1981 and 1992, Dhaliwal dominated Indian shot put for more than a decade. He won a bronze medal at the 1982 Asian Games in New Delhi and went on to claim silver in 1983, gold in 1985, and bronze in 1987 at the Asian Athletics Championships.
One of the highlights of his career came in 1986 when he set an Asian record of 18.71 meters at an international meet in New Delhi. His accomplishments earned him the Maharaja Ranjit Singh Award in 1983 and the Arjuna Award in 1987.
Dhaliwal began his career with the Punjab Police before joining Tata Steel as an assistant sports officer in 1983. He later dedicated himself to coaching and mentoring young athletes, including a stint as an athletics coach at Panjab University from 2016 to 2024.
Remembered as a humble, deeply religious, and committed sportsperson, he remained active as vice-president of the Chandigarh Athletics Association until his final days. Colleagues termed his passing a major loss to the sport. His son Paramjeet, also a shot putter, credited him for shaping his career, recalling his discipline, blunt guidance, and passion even as he battled illness.
His antim darshan will be held at Gurdwara Sahib, Sector 39, from 11 am to 12:30 pm, followed by the last rites at the Sector 25 cremation ground.
Career Highlights
- 10-time national champion (1981-1992)
- Bronze at 1982 Asian Games, New Delhi
- Silver (1983), Gold (1985), Bronze (1987) at Asian Athletics Championships
- Asian record of 18.71m in 1986
- Maharaja Ranjit Singh Award (1983) and Arjuna Award (1987)
