Fauja Singh, the globally celebrated Sikh marathoner whose astonishing endurance redefined human limits, has died aged 114 in a road accident in Punjab’s Beas village.
Singh, revered across continents for his determination and spirit, was reportedly struck by an unidentified vehicle around 3.30 p.m. on Monday while crossing a road in his native village, located in Jalandhar district. Singh was immediately taken to a nearby hospital, where he was declared dead.
Visuals circulating on social media platforms showed the injured centenarian being stretchered with visible injuries. The first report of his death emerged from a post by journalist Gagan Deep Singh (@Gagan4344) on X.
“Sardar Fauja Singh Ji, the legendary marathoner, has tragically passed away at the age of 114 in a road accident. A global icon of strength, willpower & Sikh pride he inspired millions by running marathons past 100,” Singh’s post read.
Bharatiya Janata Party leader Tajinder Singh Sran also shared news of the demise. He wrote, “1911 born, Centenarian Sikh Athlete Sardar #FaujaSingh is No More! He was struck by an unidentified vehicle around 3:30 PM today in his village, Bias, while crossing the road.”
The tragedy has sent ripples of grief across the sporting world and Sikh diaspora. Singh, often referred to as the Turbaned Tornado, rose to prominence after taking up marathon running at the age of 89, a decision born of personal grief after losing his wife and son in a car accident.
Also read: Marathon runner Sifan Hassan sets Olympic record in Paris
His running career spanned over a decade, during which he completed eight marathons and participated in multiple international events. In 2011, he became the first centenarian to complete a full marathon, finishing the Toronto Waterfront Marathon at 100 years of age. His feat, however, was not recognised by the Guinness World Records owing to the absence of a birth certificate.
The following year, he ran a 20-kilometre stretch in the London Marathon, stunning sports enthusiasts once again. In 2013, Singh retired from competitive running after participating in the Hong Kong Marathon at 101.
His indomitable spirit and disciplined lifestyle made him a beacon of health, endurance and positivity. From Times Square billboards to the Olympic torch relay, Singh carried his message of resilience across generations and geographies.
Tributes began pouring in soon after the news broke. Author Khushwant Singh posted 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.”
Daljit Singh Cheema, former Punjab Education Minister, wrote, “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.”
Former Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh also expressed his condolences: “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. May his soul rest in peace.”
Singh, who migrated to the United Kingdom in the 1990s, held British citizenship and spent much of his later life in London. Yet he remained rooted in Punjabi culture and Sikh tradition, often seen draped in a saffron turban, modestly speaking of his feats with humility and wit.
Fauja Singh's life remains an example to the power of perseverance, the strength of spirit, and the unyielding will to move forward, regardless of age.
Follow us
