Sikh marathon runner Fauja Singh, 114, dies in road accident in Punjabs Jalandhar; tributes pour in
He was hit by an unidentified vehicle in while he was out for a walk in his native village. He was immediately rushed to a private hospital where succumbed to his injuries.
PTC News Desk: Veteran marathon runner Fauja Singh passed away at the of 114 years on Monday in a road accident in Punjab's Jalandhar district. He was hit by an unidentified vehicle in while he was out for a walk in his native village. He was immediately rushed to a private hospital where succumbed to his injuries.
His demise was confirmed by author Khushwant Singh, who spoke to Fauja Singh's family members. "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," Khushwant posted on X.
SHO Hardeep Singh of Adampur Police Station said that Fauja Singh's son had informed the police following the incident.
As of now, the car that hit Fauja Singh has not been traced. We are investigating the matter, and an FIR has been registered," the SHO said. He added that Fauja Singh was on the main road at the time of the incident. "We will trace the case soon and arrest the accused," he assured.
Tributes pour in for turbaned tornado
Punjab Governor and Chandigarh Administrator Gulab Chand Kataria expressed grief over the passing of Fauja Singh. "Deeply saddened by the passing of Sardar Fauja Singh Ji, the legendary marathon runner and symbol of resilience. At 114, he joined me in the 'Nasha Mukt, Rangla Punjab' march with unmatched spirit. His legacy will continue to inspire a drug-free Punjab. Om Shanti Om," he posted on X.
Shiromani Akali Dal chief Sukhbir Singh Badal also took to his social media and expressed grief over passing away of Fauja Singh. "Punjab & the world has lost a legend in the tragic passing away of iconic athlete S. Fauja Singh in a road accident in his native village in Jalandhar at the age of 114 years. I join his fans across the globe in bidding adieu to him. Fauja Singh Ji inspired millions with his indomitable spirit. He will continue to do so even after his death. His life taught us an important lesson - that nothing is impossible. We only need to strive to achieve our goals," he said.
Punjab leader of opposition and senior Congress leader Partap Singh Bajwa paid his tribute and said, "Deeply saddened by the passing of Sardar Fauja Singh ji, the world’s oldest marathon runner. At 114, he remained an inspiration for resilience & hope. Punjab & the world salute his incredible life."
BJP leader Manjinder Singh Sirsa also paid tribute: "Deeply saddened by the passing of Fauja Singh ji, a symbol of unbreakable spirit, resilience and timeless inspiration. At 114, he proved that age is just a number and purpose knows no limits. A legend not just in running, but in life. Rest in power, Sir."