Latest news with #NashaMukt-RanglaPunjab
Hindustan Times
5 days ago
- Politics
- Hindustan Times
'Fauja Singh Ji was...': How PM Modi reacted as marathon runner dies at 114
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday paid tribute to legendary marathoner Fauja Singh, who died at the age of 114 in a road accident in Punjab's Jalandhar district. Legendary marathon runner Fauja Singh dies at 114 in road accident(File Photo) In a heartfelt message on X, PM Modi described Singh as an inspiration to generations. '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,' the PM Modi wrote. Fauja Singh passes away in road accident at 114 Fauja Singh passed away on Monday following a road accident in his ancestral village in Jalandhar. He had become a symbol of endurance and hope, breaking records in international marathons well into his 100s and promoting fitness and healthy living. Remembered worldwide for redefining age and fitness, Singh was fondly known as the 'Turbaned Tornado'. Known as the 'Sikh Superman,' Fauja Singh rose to global fame after making his marathon debut at the age of 89 at the London Marathon in 2000. He went on to run in Toronto, New York, and other cities, becoming the oldest marathoner to complete the race in multiple age categories. His achievements challenged perceptions of age and physical capability. National and state leaders pay tribute Gulab Chand Kataria, Governor of Punjab, expressed sorrow over Singh's death. 'Deeply saddened by the passing of Sardar Fauja Singh Ji, the legendary marathon runner and an enduring symbol of resilience and hope. Even at the age of 114, he continued to inspire generations with his strength and commitment." He added, 'I had the honour of walking alongside him during the two-day 'Nasha Mukt - Rangla Punjab' march from his village Beas, district Jalandhar in December 2024. Even then, his presence infused the movement with unparalleled energy and spirit,' news agency ANI quoted Kataria as saying. He added that Singh's legacy will continue to inspire those committed to a drug-free and healthier Punjab. Former Punjab chief minister and BJP leader Captain Amarinder Singh also condoled Singh's death. In a post on 'X', he wrote, 'Deeply saddened to hear about the passing of Fauja Singh Ji, the legendary marathon runner, at the age of 114 in a tragic road accident. His extraordinary life and unwavering spirit will continue to inspire generations.' Shiromani Akali Dal leader Daljit S Cheema echoed the sentiments, saying, 'Saddened to learn about the passing away of legendary athlete Sardar Fauja Singh at the age of 114 in an accident today. A global icon of endurance and inspiration, he proved that age is no barrier. His life and legacy will continue to motivate generations.'
Mint
5 days ago
- Sport
- Mint
Who was Fauja Singh? Internet says World's oldest marathon runner who died at 114 was ‘inspiration, much younger'
World's oldest marathon runner and prominently known as 'Turbaned Tornado', Fauja Singh died at 114 in a road accident on Monday in Punjab's Jalandhar district. Since his passing, heartfelt tributes have poured in, with many calling him 'inspiration'. 'We received information that Fauja Singh has died. We have come to the have registered a case under the relevant accident happened on the main road near Beas city. We are checking the CCTVs,' ANI quoted Thana Incharge HP Preet Singh as saying. Fauja Singh's biography states that he was born on April 1, 1911. He was unable to walk until he was five years old. Although Singh started off as a casual runner, the Partition of India disrupted his life, as it did for millions in the region. He is called as the "Sikh Superman". Following the loss of multiple family members due to accidents and other misfortunes, Fauja Singh resumed running to help manage his sorrow and depression. During the 1990s, the marathoner relocated to England to reside with one of his sons. At 89 years old, in 2000, he he made his debut at London Marathon. Singh's comeback was an extraordinary as did competitive running, joined international marathons in Toronto, New York and others within his age group. He has accomplished it six more times since then. In 2012, Fauja Singh appeared as a special guest at the 2nd Annual Chardikala Run in Malaysia. The event was themed "101 and running" as a tribute to his remarkable age and achievements. During the closing ceremony, he was honoured on stage with The BrandLaureate Award. After participating in the Hong Kong marathon on February 24, 2013, just five weeks before his 102nd birthday, Singh announced his retirement from competitive running. He completed the 10-kilometre race in 1 hour, 32 minutes, and 28 seconds. Despite stepping back from competition, he shared his intention to keep running for enjoyment, well-being, and charitable causes. One of the users remarked, 'He was an absolute inspiration! Whenever my son and myself complains about getting tired during runs or sports, we get charged up just hearing the names of Sr Fauja Singh and Milkha Singh. May your legacy live forever. Waheguru🙏' Another said, 'The Turbaned Tornado is no more. Rest easy S Fauja Singh Ji, you will be deeply missed.' A third user commented, "Fauja Singh was a huge inspiration. Sad to hear he's died after being hit by a car. 'As impressive as Fauja Singh was, he doesn't own any masters records because his age wasn't verified. The hard truth is that he was likely *much* younger than claimed,' a user reacted. "Deeply saddened by the passing of Sardar Fauja Singh Ji, the legendary marathon runner and an enduring symbol of resilience and hope. Even at the age of 114, he continued to inspire generations with his strength and commitment. I had the honour of walking alongside him during the two-day 'Nasha Mukt - Rangla Punjab' march from his village Beas, district Jalandhar in December 2024. Even then, his presence infused the movement with unparalleled energy and spirit," Governor Gulab Chand Kataria said.
