Marathon runner Fauja Singh passed away on Monday in his native village in Punjab's Jalandhar district after being struck by an unknown vehicle while on a walk. He was 114 years old. The confirmation of his death came from author Khushwant Singh, who spoke with Fauja Singh's family members. Punjab Governor and Chandigarh Administrator Gulab Chand Kataria expressed his condolences for the death of Fauja Singh.
The governor stated on social media platform X, 'Truly sorrowful. The passing of marathon runner and perseverance icon Sardar Fauja Singh at the age of 114 is a significant loss. He participated with remarkable enthusiasm in the substance-free, vibrant Punjab march alongside me. His legacy continues to inspire a drug-free Punjab. Om Shanti Om.'
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Fauja Singh's biography, 'The Turbaned Tornado,' was authored by Punjab's former State Information Commissioner Khushwant Singh. On X, Khushwant Singh wrote, 'My Turbaned Tornado is no more. It is with a heavy heart that I convey the news of Fauja Singh's demise. Around 3:30 PM today, he was hit by an unknown vehicle while crossing a road in his village Beas. Rest in peace, dear Fauja.'
When contacted, Khushwant Singh affirmed that he had spoken to Fauja Singh's family members, who confirmed the news of his death. After the road accident, the long-distance runner Fauja Singh was taken to a private hospital in Jalandhar, where he passed away.
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Fauja Singh was born on April 1, 1911, in the village of Beas in Punjab's Jalandhar district. He started running marathons internationally at the age of 90. His decision to run marathons at this age amazed many. Fauja Singh became renowned as the ‘Turbaned Tornado’ due to his courage and determination; the title of his biography reflects this.
At the age of 90, Fauja Singh completed his first marathon. In 2004, he finished the London Marathon at age 93. In 2011, he completed the Toronto Marathon at age 100, setting a record in the 100+ category. He was the world's oldest marathon runner.
