Picture Credit: X
Veteran marathon runner and oldest in the world among marathoners, Fauja Singh passed away in a tragic road accident on Monday, July 14. The 114-year-old runner, who was reckoned by the name “Turbaned Tornado”, passed away at the age of 114 after being struck by an unidentified vehicle in his native village in Punjab’s Jhalandar district.
The accident is said to have occurred on Monday in Bias village, where he was hit, suffering severe injuries, especially on his head. Thana Incharge HP, Preet Singh in his address to the media reported, "We received information that Fauja Singh has died. We have come to the hospital...We have registered a case under the relevant sections...The accident happened on the main road near Beas city. We are checking the CCTVs."
PM Narendra Modi reacts on Fauja Singh’s demise; shares condolences
Prior to this, his death was confirmed by author Kushwant Singh, who also served as a former Punjab State Information Commissioner. “My Turbaned Tornado is no more. It is with great sadness that I share the passing of my most revered S. Fauja Singh. He was struck by an unidentified vehicle around 3:30 PM today in his village, Bias, while crossing the road. Rest in peace, my dear Fauja,” he post read.
Later, after his death was confirmed, eminent personalities from the state of Punjab and India, including the Prime Minister, Narendra Modi shared his condolences. Taking to X, PM Modi wrote, “Fauja Singh Ji was extraordinary because of his unique persona and the manner in which he inspired the youth of India on a very important topic of fitness. He was an exceptional athlete with incredible determination. Pained by his passing away. My thoughts are with his family and countless admirers around the world.”
Singh, who was also hailed at “Sikh Superman” was born on April 1, 1911, as mentioned in his biography. After facing several challenges, including being at the time of partition, Singh tried to cope with the grief and reignited his passion in sports. Although, he moved to England in the 1990s with his son, at the age of 89, he ran his first marathon - the London Marathon in 2000.
With this he began his record-setting journey and never looked back, entering several international marathons, including the ones on Toronto, New York and others. This feat rose him to a global sensation. His final marathon came in February 2024 and then big goodbye to competitive running.
