A nation mourns its Turbaned Tornado Fauja Singh: ‘Symbol of unbreakable spirit, inspiration…’
Leaders cutting across party lines condoled the marathoner's death, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi saying he was extraordinary because of his unique persona and the manner in which he inspired the youth of India on the topic of fitness.
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Marathoner Fauja Singh died Monday after being knocked down by a vehicle near an eatery named after his late son. (File)India Tuesday mourned the loss of Fauja Singh, regarded as the oldest person and the first centenarian to complete a full marathon, who died at the age of 114. Fondly known as the ‘Turbaned Tornado,’ he died in a road accident at his ancestral village in Punjab’s Jalandhar.
Leaders cutting across party lines condoled the marathoner’s death, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi saying he was extraordinary because of his unique persona and the manner in which he inspired the youth of India on the topic of fitness. “He was an exceptional athlete with incredible determination,” said Modi.
Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann said that the veteran marathon runner made the Sikh community around the world proud with his long distance running. “He will always live in our hearts and memories,” Mann posted on X.
Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini said his indomitable energy and message of a healthy lifestyle are a source of inspiration for us all. His life journey will continue to inspire future generations to move forward with discipline, determination, and positive thinking.
The Punjab Assembly paid tributes to Fauja Singh. On the concluding day of the special session of the assembly, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Ravjot Singh moved a proposal for paying tributes to Singh in the House.
Leader of Opposition in Punjab Assembly Partap Singh Bajwa and state Congress chief Amrinder Singh Raja Warring also condoled the death of the marathon runner. “At 114, he remained an inspiration for resilience and hope. Punjab and the world salute his incredible life,” Bajwa posted on X.
In a post on X, Warring said Fauja Singh “was an example of grit, determination and perseverance”
Pargat Singh, Congress MLA from Jalandhar Cantt and former Indian hockey captain, said, “Even at the age of 114, he continued to inspire generations with his strength and commitment. His legacy, however, will forever live on in the hearts of those fighting for a healthier, and drug-free Punjab.”
Punjab Governor Gulab Chand Kataria said Fauja Singh was “an enduring symbol of resilience and hope” and 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 in December 2024. Even then, his presence infused the movement with unparalleled energy and spirit,” the governor said, adding Fauja Singh’s legacy will forever live on in the hearts of those fighting for a healthier and drug-free Punjab.
Former Punjab CM Captain Amarinder Singh said the legendary marathon runner’s “extraordinary life and unwavering spirit will continue to inspire generations”.
Delhi Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa termed Fauja Singh “a symbol of unbreakable spirit, resilience, and timeless inspiration” who proved that age is just a number and purpose knows no limits.
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