CHANDIGARH: Veteran marathon runner Fauja Singh passed away on Monday at the age of 114 after being hit by an unidentified vehicle while out for a walk in his native village, Bias, in Punjab’s Jalandhar district.
The news of his death was confirmed by author Khushwant Singh, who had spoken to members of Singh’s family.
Punjab Governor and Chandigarh Administrator Gulab Chand Kataria expressed his condolences, calling Fauja Singh a “symbol of resilience.”
“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,” Kataria wrote in a post on X.
Khushwant Singh, who authored The Turbaned Tornado, a biography of Fauja Singh, also mourned the loss.
“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 posted on X.
Speaking to reporters, Khushwant Singh reiterated that he had personally confirmed the tragic news with Fauja Singh’s family.
