Fauja Singh, the ‘Turbaned Tornado’, Dies at 114 in Road Accident; Tributes Pour In for Legendary Marathoner

Fauja Singh, known as the world’s oldest marathon runner, passed away in a tragic road accident in Jalandhar. At 114, his legacy of resilience and inspiration continues to uplift generations.

Chandigarh, July 15:
Legendary marathon runner Fauja Singh, revered across the globe as the ‘Turbaned Tornado’, passed away on Monday at the age of 114 in a tragic road accident in his ancestral village in Punjab’s Jalandhar district. A symbol of endurance, determination, and ageless vitality, Singh’s demise has triggered an outpouring of grief and heartfelt tributes from political leaders, sportspersons, and admirers worldwide.

A Life That Defied Limits

Born in 1911, Fauja Singh didn’t start running competitively until he was well into his 80s, but he went on to redefine what it meant to be an athlete. Known as the “Sikh Superman”, he became a beacon of hope and resilience by competing in — and completing — marathons across the world, well into his 90s and 100s. He made headlines when he debuted at the London Marathon in 2000 at the age of 89, finishing it six more times afterward. His stride carried him through marathons in Toronto, New York, and several other international cities, shattering age-related stereotypes and records.

Tributes From Across the Nation

Punjab Governor Gulab Chand Kataria expressed profound sorrow over Singh’s passing.

“Deeply saddened by the passing of Sardar Fauja Singh Ji, the legendary marathon runner and an enduring symbol of resilience and hope. Even at the age of 114, he continued to inspire generations with his strength and commitment. I had the honour of walking alongside him during the two-day ‘Nasha Mukt – Rangla Punjab’ march from his village Beas in December 2024. His presence infused the movement with unparalleled energy and spirit,” Kataria said.

He added that Singh’s legacy would live on through those striving for a healthier, drug-free Punjab, a cause close to the marathoner’s heart.

Captain Amarinder Singh, former Punjab Chief Minister and senior BJP leader, took to X (formerly Twitter) to share his grief.

“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.”

Daljit S. Cheema, senior Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) leader, also paid tribute:

“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.”

A Legacy That Transcends Borders

Fauja Singh’s story was not just about marathons; it was about breaking boundaries, challenging stereotypes, and championing wellness at a grassroots level. From being the face of health campaigns to inspiring youth to abandon drugs and embrace fitness, his efforts were deeply embedded in the social fabric of Punjab and Indian diaspora communities abroad.

His unmatched achievements include being the oldest man to complete a marathon and setting several records in age-category running. Yet, what made him iconic was not just his running — it was his humility, discipline, vegetarian lifestyle, and belief in mental positivity.

As the world bids goodbye to this ageless wonder, his story remains a powerful reminder that age is just a number, and the human spirit knows no limits.