Pointers
• Fauja Singh, the world’s oldest marathoner, died in a hit-and-run on July 14, 2025.
• CM Bhagwant Mann honors Fauja’s legacy at Beas cremation.
• State to rename the village school and install statues for Fauja.
• Thousands mourn the 114-year-old’s inspiring life and contributions.
• Fauja Singh, the world’s oldest marathoner, died in a hit-and-run on July 14, 2025.
• CM Bhagwant Mann honors Fauja’s legacy at Beas cremation.
• State to rename the village school and install statues for Fauja.
• Thousands mourn the 114-year-old’s inspiring life and contributions.
Fauja Singh’s Remarkable Life and Tragic Death Inspire Punjab
Fauja Singh, born in 1911 in Beas, Jalandhar, became a global icon as the world’s oldest marathon runner. Known as the “Turbaned Tornado,” he began running at 89 to cope with the loss of his wife and son. He completed 18 marathons, including the London Marathon (2000), Toronto Marathon (2011), and Hong Kong Marathon (2013), becoming the first centenarian to finish a marathon. His resilience earned him the Shaurya Chakra and worldwide admiration.
Tragically, on July 14, 2025, Fauja, aged 114, was killed in a hit-and-run by an SUV driven by Amritpal Singh Dhillon while crossing the Jalandhar-Pathankot highway. The accused was arrested, and the vehicle was identified through CCTV footage. Punjab mourned deeply, with thousands attending his cremation on July 20, 2025. His legacy continues to inspire healthy living and determination.
Emotional Cremation Ceremony Honors Fauja Singh’s Global Impact
On July 20, 2025, thousands gathered in Beas, Jalandhar, to bid a tearful farewell to Fauja Singh. Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann laid a wreath, expressing profound grief. Fauja’s son, Harvinder Singh, lit the funeral pyre amidst state honors.
Mann lauded Fauja’s dedication, saying, “His perseverance inspires young athletes.” The 114-year-old’s global fame as a symbol of endurance was unmatched. He brought pride to Punjab and the Sikh community through his marathons.
Dignitaries, including Governor Gulab Chand Kataria and Minister Mohinder Bhagat, attended the ceremony. Mann announced the renaming of the village school after Fauja and the installation of statues at the local stadium and Jalandhar’s Sports College. The outpouring of grief reflected Fauja’s universal appeal.
Fauja Singh’s Athletic Legacy Continues to Motivate Generations
Fauja Singh’s journey redefined the concepts of aging and resilience. Starting his marathon career at 89, he ran in London, New York, and Hong Kong, setting records. In 2011, at 100, he broke multiple world records at a Toronto meet named in his honor.
“Fauja Ji showed age is no barrier,” Mann said at the cremation. His participation in anti-drug campaigns, like last year’s walk with Governor Kataria, inspired many. His biography, Turbaned Tornado by Khushwant Singh, chronicles his life.
The state’s tributes ensure his legacy endures. Prime Minister Narendra Modi called him “extraordinary” for inspiring youth. Fauja’s story motivates healthy living and resilience worldwide, leaving an indelible mark.
