Baba Fauja Singh, the legendary long-distance runner affectionately known as the “Turbaned Tornado”, has died at the age of 114 after being struck by a car while out for a walk in his native village in Punjab.
The accident occurred on Monday afternoon along the Jalandhar-Pathankot highway near Bias village, where Singh was born on April 1, 1911.
According to local police, an unidentified vehicle hit the centenarian, inflicting severe head injuries. He was rushed to a private hospital but succumbed to his injuries at 7:30 PM IST.
A police case for rash and negligent driving has been registered, though the driver fled the scene and remains unidentified.
Singh, who also visited Australia in 2013, rose to global fame for his remarkable endurance and inspirational life, taking up marathon running at the age of 89. He went on to complete nine full marathons in cities including London, Toronto, and New York, with a personal best of 5 hours, 40 minutes, and 4 seconds recorded in Toronto.
He became the first centenarian to complete a marathon and carried the Olympic torch in both the 2004 Athens and 2012 London Games. He also featured in global sports campaigns alongside icons like David Beckham and Muhammad Ali.
Punjab Governor Gulab Chand Kataria paid tribute to Singh, writing: “Even at the age of 114, he continued to inspire generations with his strength and commitment. His legacy will forever live on in the hearts of those fighting for a healthier and drug-free Punjab.”
Capt. Amarinder Singh, former Punjab Chief Minister, added: “His extraordinary life and unwavering spirit will continue to inspire generations.”
Biographer Khushwant Singh had penned “The Turbaned Tornado,” shared the news on X: “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.” He has shared Fauja Singh’s humble beginnings in the book. Born into a farming family, Singh took up running in his late 80s following personal tragedy, using sport as a way to cope with the loss of his wife and son.
Despite his global fame, Singh always remained deeply connected to his Sikh roots and rural upbringing. In public appearances, he spoke of how his turban and beard symbolised both faith and identity. “My beard and my turban have enhanced my respect in the world,” he once said.
Though Guinness World Records never formally recognised him as the world’s oldest marathoner due to lack of birth documentation from colonial India, his achievements have never been in doubt.
Singh’s body has been placed in a local mortuary until the arrival of his children from overseas. His final rites will be conducted thereafter.
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