Rajeev Mohta (extreme right) shown at a reunion in 2017 of the 1982 Asian Games team
Some days ago, the Indian golfing community lost one of their champions – Rajeev Mohta, who passed away on 9th August 2024 at the age of 65 in Kolkota where he lived since the 1980’s. He had been unwell for some time.
He was a two time All India Amateur winner and took the individual silver at the 1982 Asian Games at Delhi Golf Club along with the team gold, where i was also on the team.
Rajeev was a good friend of mine since our teenage years playing the All-India Juniors, then at the Men’s amateur circuit and Asian Games.
Rajeev’s swagger and confidence was something that any young, ambitious golfer would do well to emulate. He used to shoot for the pin and always be optimistic about his chances of pulling off a risky shot. His knowledge and passion for golf was deep – he studied greenkeeping and course design and as a player was a master strategist and course management expert.
Many golfers tell me they still remember our 36 hole All India Amateur final at Royal Calcutta GC in 1984 which was decided on the final hole after literally each player had made a dozen birdies and a couple of eagles !
Raju, as he was better known, was a superb snooker player in his later years and always generous and loved by all. The Royal Calcutta GC fittingly hosted his memorial gathering which was attended by his two sons Varun and Karan, who live in Mumbai. The golfing community has lost a pioneer and true champion. He will be missed.