Fauja Singh: Legendary runner and London Marathon record holder, dies aged 114 after being struck by car
Fauja Singh, the legendary Sikh marathon runner, has died at the age of 114 after being hit by an unidentified vehicle in Punjab.
The incident occurred around 3.30pm on Monday, July 14, in his native village of Beas. He was crossing the road when the collision happened and later died from his injuries at a private hospital in Jalandhar, according to a post on his Facebook page.
Tributes have poured in for the man affectionately known as the "Turbaned Tornado."
“It is heartbreaking to learn that he lost his life today in a tragic road accident in his village,” said Punjab Governor Gulab Chand Kataria. “Even at the age of 114, he continued to inspire generations with his strength and commitment. His legacy will forever live on in the hearts of those fighting for a healthier, and drug-free Punjab.”
Kataria also recalled walking alongside Singh during the ‘Nasha Mukt – Rangla Punjab’ march from Beas in December 2024. “Even then, his presence infused the movement with unparalleled energy and spirit,” he said.
Chandigarh-based author Khushwant Singh, who wrote Fauja’s biography Turbaned Tornado, posted on Facebook: “My Turbaned Tornado is no more.”
Khalsa Lakhvir-Singh described the loss as profound: “Renowned globally for his extraordinary endurance and unwavering spirit, he served as a beacon of inspiration to countless individuals. His untimely death is a significant loss to the sports world and his legions of admirers, leaving behind an indelible legacy.”
Giani Kuldeep Singh Gargaj, jathedar of the Akal Takht, said: “Sardar Fauja Singh was a vibrant and spirited Sikh who brought global recognition and honor to the Sikh identity and the turban. He always walked forward in life following the teachings of Gurbani: ‘Look ahead; don’t turn your face backwards.’ Every youngster in Punjab should draw lessons from his life.”
Fauja was born on April 1, 1911. He reportedly could not walk until the age of five and faced multiple tragedies throughout his life, including the deaths of several family members. After migrating to England in the 1990s to live with his son, he took up long-distance running as a way to overcome depression - seriously returning to the sport at the age of 89.
He ran the 2003 London Marathon in just over six hours and completed the Toronto Waterfront Marathon at the age of 92 in 5 hours and 40 minutes—setting records in various age categories.
“The legend will no longer run, walk or breathe amongst us, despite his 114 years of strength,” wrote a Kenyan admirer who met him in Nairobi in 2007. “He lived a life larger than life itself.”
People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals India (PETA India) also paid tribute, saying: (We are) deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Fauja Singh, the beloved centenarian marathoner and long-time advocate for animals. Mr Singh was proudly meat-free and inspired countless people to live in good health and with kindness and compassion.
“For his powerful pro-veg campaign for PETA India, Mr Singh said, ‘Age may bring wisdom, but if you want stamina, endurance and a lifetime of good health, turn to nutritious vegetarian foods.’ His message resonated with athletes, elders, and youth alike, and showed that compassion and strength go hand in hand.
“Fauja Singh’s life was a testament to resilience, discipline, and heart – for people and animals. His support for meat-free living helped shine a light on the suffering of animals in the meat industry and inspired many to choose a more humane way of life.
“Animals have lost a powerful champion in Fauja Singh. His compassion reached far beyond the finish line. PETA India will forever remember him as a friend, a superhero, and an inspiration.”