Former Indian Army officer Major Khushboo Patani has drawn widespread attention on social media after sharing a self-defence video in which she encouraged women to receive proper training in handling air pistols and become more self-reliant when it comes to their personal safety.
Khushboo Patani, the elder sister of Bollywood actor Disha Patani, posted the video on Instagram, where she demonstrated a CO₂-powered .177 air pistol resembling a Glock handgun. She made it clear that the weapon being demonstrated was an air pistol rather than a conventional firearm firing live ammunition.
Addressing women in the video, the former Army officer described the weapon as a Glock-style CO₂ air pistol and advised viewers interested in learning to handle one to undergo proper practice at a shooting range.
Patani explained that the air pistol uses pellets rather than conventional firearm ammunition. During the demonstration, she removed the magazine and discussed how the equipment functions while stressing that women should learn to handle it properly before considering it for personal protection.
Her central message was that women should develop the skills and confidence necessary to protect themselves rather than remaining completely dependent on others during an emergency. “There’s no need to depend on people,” she said while discussing women’s safety.
Patani also included a disclaimer with the Instagram video, stating that the demonstration was intended for self-defence and educational purposes. She cautioned viewers that an air pistol should not be considered a toy and must be handled wisely and responsibly.
The video has generated discussion online, particularly because Patani combined her message on women’s safety with a practical demonstration of an air weapon. Her background as a former Indian Army officer has also attracted attention to the video.
However, the licensing status of air weapons in India depends on their specifications rather than simply whether they are described as air guns. Under the Arms Rules, 2016, air weapons exceeding 20 joules or 15 ft-lbs of muzzle energy and/or exceeding .177 inch or 4.5 mm bore are subject to licensing requirements.
Air weapons falling within the lower category specified under the rules are not subject to the same individual licensing requirement. The Ministry of Home Affairs states that such weapons may be sold through licensed air-weapon dealers after obtaining identity and residence proof from the buyer.
Patani has used her social-media presence to discuss self-defence and preparedness on previous occasions as well. Her latest video continues that theme, with the former Army officer emphasising training, responsible handling and greater awareness among women about personal safety.
