Army Major Khushboo Patani Urges Women to Learn Air Pistol Handling for Self-Defence
Former Indian Army officer Major Khushboo Patani has drawn attention on social media after urging women to become more self-reliant in matters of personal safety by learning the proper handling of air pistols.
Patani, the elder sister of Bollywood actor Disha Patani, shared a video on Instagram in which she displayed a CO₂-powered .177 air pistol modelled on the Glock 17 Gen 4. She clarified that the weapon shown in the video was an air pistol and not a conventional firearm using live ammunition.
Addressing women in the video, Patani encouraged those interested in learning shooting and weapon handling to undergo proper training at a recognised shooting range. She stressed that simply possessing such equipment was not enough and that users should understand its operation and practise handling it safely.
The former Army officer also demonstrated the air pistol while explaining that it uses pellets or BBs propelled using compressed CO₂ rather than conventional firearm cartridges. Despite the difference, air pistols are capable of causing injury and must therefore be treated with caution.
Patani accompanied the video with a disclaimer stating that the demonstration was intended only for self-defence and educational purposes. She specifically warned viewers that an air pistol should not be treated as a toy and should always be handled wisely and responsibly.
Her message focused heavily on women becoming better prepared to protect themselves rather than remaining completely dependent on others in potentially dangerous situations. Patani said proper training could give women greater confidence and awareness about personal safety.
The video comes amid renewed public discussion over women's safety following the alleged assault and harassment of two minors in Bihar's Jamui district. Patani had earlier reacted strongly to the incident
