Chandigarh, Jul 15 (PTI) Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Tuesday said veteran marathon runner Fauja Singh, who died in a road accident, made the Sikh community around the world proud with his long distance running.
Singh died on Monday after being hit by an unidentified vehicle while out for a walk in his native village in Punjab’s Jalandhar district. He was 114.
“Very sad to hear about the death of famous Punjabi Sikh runner Fauja Singh ji. The world’s oldest runner Fauja Singh ji, who made the Sikh community proud in the world with his long distance running, will always live in our hearts and memories. Heartfelt condolences to his family and loved ones,” Mann posted on X.
On Tuesday, a police official from Jalandhar said that efforts are on to trace the erring driver who fled after hitting Singh.
The last rites of Singh are likely to be conducted after a couple of days, a family member told PTI on Tuesday.
“We have many relatives living abroad including in the UK and Canada. So, it may take some time before they reach,” he said.
Born in 1911 into a family of farmers, Singh was the youngest of four siblings. He became the first centenarian to complete a marathon, earning multiple records while participating in international events.
Singh began running marathons at an old age, gaining the nickname “Turbaned Tornado” for his endurance and athleticism.
He moved to England in the 1990s and later returned to live in his native village in Punjab in recent years where he has been living presently. He was a torchbearer for the London 2012 Olympics.
Last year, Singh, in a symbolic gesture, joined Punjab Governor Gulab Chand Kataria in a walkathon to spread awareness against drug abuse.
Leader of Opposition in Punjab Assembly and Congress leader, Partap Singh Bajwa also expressed his condolences over Fauja Singh’s demise.
“Deeply saddened by the passing of Sardar Fauja Singh ji, the world’s oldest marathon runner. At 114, he remained an inspiration for resilience and hope. Punjab and the world salute his incredible life,” Bajwa posted on X.
In a post on X, Punjab Congress chief Amrinder Singh Raja Warring wrote, “Saddened over the untimely death of our legend #FaujaSingh Ji. He was an example of grit, determination and perseverance running marathons well past 100 years.
“More shocking is that he fell victim to a hit-and-run incident. We never know how long he may have lived more. A precious and an illustrious life has been taken away from us. Hope the culprit is identified and punished,” Warring said in his post.
Pargat Singh, Congress MLA from Jalandhar Cantt and former Indian hockey captain, said, “Even at the age of 114, he continued to inspire generations with his strength and commitment. His legacy, however, will forever live on in the hearts of those fighting for a healthier, and drug-free Punjab.” PTI SUN SKY SKY
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