Legendary marathon runner Fauja Singh dies at 114

Veteran marathon runner Fauja 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. 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 in his village, Bias, while crossing the road. Rest in peace, my dear Fauja," Khushwant posted on X. He died at a private hospital in Jalandhar on Monday evening after reportedly being hit by an unidentified vehicle in his village, Beas, in the afternoon.

Punjab Governor and Chandigarh Administrator, Gulab Chand Kataria, also expressed 'deep sadness' over Fauja Singh's passing. In a post on X, he wrote, "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."

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."

Born on April 1, 1911, in Beas Pind, debuted as a marathon runner at the ripe age of 89 years in 2000. Nicknamed the 'Turbaned Tornado', Singh ran nine full marathons. His best time was recorded in Toronto, where he clocked five hours, 40 minutes and four seconds.Singh moved to England in 1992. He settled down in East London with his son after the death of his wife, Gian Kaur, in Jalandhar. He holds the world record for the marathon in his age group and has five British records. On January 1, 2015, Singh received the British Empire Medal for his athletic achievements. Fauja Singh was also a torchbearer for the London Olympics in 2012.