Punjab: 114-year-old marathon runner Fauja Singh dies in road accident, hit by car while crossing the road

Jalandhar. Marathon runner Fauja Singh died on Monday after being hit by an unidentified vehicle while walking in his native village in Jalandhar district of Punjab. He was 114 years old. His death was confirmed by author Khushwant Singh, who spoke to Fauja Singh’s family members. Punjab Governor and Chandigarh Administrator Gulab Chand Kataria condoled the death of Fauja Singh.

Very sad. The 114-year-old Punjab Governor wrote in a post on the social media platform X, ‘In the wake of the demise of Sardar Fauja Singh, a marathon runner and a symbol of perseverance, he joined me in the drug-free, Rangla Punjab march with unparalleled enthusiasm. His legacy will remain an inspiration for a drug-free Punjab. Om Shanti Om.’

Fauja Singh’s biography, ‘The Turbaned Tornado’, was written by former Punjab State Information Commissioner Khushwant Singh. Khushwant Singh wrote on X, ‘My Turbaned Tornado is no more. It is with great sorrow that I have to inform you about the demise of Fauja Singh. He was hit by an unknown vehicle while crossing the road in his village Beas at around 3.30 pm today. May your soul rest in peace, my dear Fauja.’

When contacted, Khushwant Singh said he has spoken to Fauja Singh’s family members, who have confirmed the news of his death. After the road accident, long-distance runner Fauja Singh was rushed to a private hospital in Jalandhar, where he died.

Fauja Singh was born on April 1, 1911 in Beas Pind in Jalandhar district of Punjab. He started running marathons internationally at the age of 90. His decision to run a marathon at this age surprised people. Due to his courage and determination, Fauja Singh became famous as ‘Turbaned Tornado’. This is also the title of his biography.

Fauja Singh completed his first marathon at the age of 90. In 2004, he completed the London Marathon at the age of 93. In 2011, at the age of 100, he completed the Toronto Marathon and made a record in the 100+ category. He was the oldest marathon runner in the world.