The world mourns the loss of Fauja Singh, known affectionately as the “Turbaned Tornado”, who passed away on July 14 in a tragic road accident near his home in Beas Pind, Punjab.
At 114, he was the oldest marathon runner on record and an enduring symbol of longevity, inspiration, and resilience.
Also, the Indian film industry bid a heartfelt farewell to one of its most cherished veterans— Kota Srinivasa Rao, you can read our article to get more info about his life.
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🕊️ Accident and Immediate Aftermath
Fauja Singh was struck by an unidentified vehicle while crossing the road in the afternoon in his native village. Police confirmed the collision occurred around 3:30 PM, and Singh was rushed to a nearby hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries hours later.
Authorities have registered a case, are analyzing CCTV footage, and are actively searching for the driver responsible.
Local officials described the scene as heartbreaking. The community has rallied around his family, whose final rites are being coordinated pending the return of his children from abroad.
🎖️ Life and Unparalleled Athletic Journey

Born on April 1, 1911, in rural Punjab, Fauja Singh overcame early childhood illnesses and delayed walking to rise above adversity.
He moved to the UK in the early 1990s, following the loss of his wife. At 89, he took up walking and then running, embarking on what would become a record-breaking career.
Between 2000 and 2012, Singh completed nine full marathons, including six London Marathons, two in Toronto, and one in New York . In 2011, at 100, he became the first centenarian to complete a marathon in Toronto, clocking 8 hours 11 minutes.
Despite not being officially recognized by Guinness (due to lack of birth documentation), Fauja’s feats earned him admirers worldwide. His personal bests included a 6:02 time at London (2003) and 5:40 at Toronto (same year).
🌟 Honors, Influence, and Inspiring Legacy
Fauja Singh’s achievements garnered numerous accolades:
- Ellis Island Medal of Honour (2013)
- British Empire Medal (2015) for excellence in sports and charity
- Olympic torchbearer at London 2012
- Featured in Adidas’s renowned “Impossible is Nothing” campaign alongside global icons
Well-known author Khushwant Singh, who penned his biography “Turbaned Tornado”, described Fauja as a lifelong giver and inspiration. His book was launched in London’s House of Lords in 2011 .
Fauja’s discipline—rooted in vegetarian living, spiritual faith, and daily walking—resonated with people across generations and cultures .
👏 Global Tributes and National Mourning
Prime Minister’s Tribute
Prime Minister Narendra Modi described Fauja Singh as “an extraordinary athlete” whose dedication inspired India’s youth toward fitness and healthy living. He expressed heartfelt condolences to Singh’s family and fans worldwide.
State Leaders and Community Reaction
Punjab Governor Gulab Chand Kataria called him a “legend of resilience,” recalling a symbolic walk they took together in December 2024 during the “Nasha Mukt – Rangla Punjab” campaign. The governor affirmed that Fauja Singh’s legacy will continue to serve and inspire Punjab’s youth .
Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann echoed the sentiments, stating that Fauja Singh made the Punjabi and Sikh community proud worldwide .
Leader of Opposition Partap Singh Bajwa and Congress state chief Amrinder Singh Raja Warring mourned the loss of “a legend” and condemned the suspected hit-and-run .
Author Khushwant Singh publicly mourned his friend on social media, writing, “My Turbaned Tornado is no more,” and reaffirming Fauja’s lifelong generosity.
❤️ A Life Beyond Records
Fauja Singh’s journey transcended sport. He became a global mentor for physical endurance, mental strength, and charitable service. He believed in giving back—donating marathon earnings to charities, supporting newborn care, and promoting interfaith harmony .
His impact extended globally as he embraced diverse cultures, spoke at international events, and motivated elders to remain active and purpose-driven .
🔍 Investigation Underway
Local police hunted down the vehicle involved in the accident and registered an FIR. Officers examined nearby CCTV footage to apprehend the driver. The case is ongoing .
Fauja Singh’s funeral arrangements were delayed awaiting the return of his children, who are based abroad .
Final Reflections
Fauja Singh’s passing closes a chapter on a life that redefined age, endurance, and inspiration. From rural Punjab to global stadiums, he showed that obstacles—personal and physical—can be overcome with discipline and purpose.
At 114, he symbolized hope, resilience, and the idea that it’s never too late to start. His story reminds us that with determination, each step—whether in a marathon or in life—can leave a lasting legacy.
His memory lives on through the generations he inspired, the records he set, and the message he embodied: “age is just a number.”