Veteran marathon runner Fauja Singh, revered globally as the ‘Turbaned Tornado’, passed away at the age of 114 following a tragic road accident in Punjab. According to Amar Ujala, the incident occurred while Singh was out on a walk near his residence. He was reportedly struck by a car, which fled the scene after hitting him. Singh collapsed on the road and was rushed by family members to a private hospital in Jalandhar, where doctors declared him dead.
Fauja Singh, of Punjabi origin and based in the United Kingdom, held several world records across age categories. Despite spending decades in Britain, he spoke only Punjabi and often expressed regret at not being able to speak or write English. His athletic journey was remarkable, especially considering that he only began walking at the age of five.
Punjab Governor Kataria Remembers ‘Running Baba’
Punjab Governor Gulab Chand Kataria expressed profound sorrow over the news, stating, “It is heartbreaking to learn that he lost his life today in a tragic road accident.” Reflecting on the centenarian’s unrelenting zeal for fitness, Kataria said, “Even at the age of 114, he continued to inspire generations with his strength and commitment.”
Recalling a memorable moment, the Punjab Governor shared that he had the privilege of joining Singh during the ‘Nasha Mukt: Rangla Punjab’ march in December 2024. “I had the honour of walking alongside him during the two-day march from his village Beas, district Jalandhar… his presence infused the movement with unparalleled energy and spirit,” he said.
Kataria added that Singh’s legacy would continue to motivate many in the movement for a drug-free and healthier Punjab. “My heartfelt condolences to his family and admirers across the globe. May his soul attain eternal peace,” the governor said.
‘My Turbaned Tornado is No More’: Biographer Mourns Demise
Chandigarh-based author Khushwant Singh, who penned Fauja Singh’s authorised biography “Turbaned Tornado”, took to social media to share the news. In a Facebook post, he wrote, “Sharing with great sadness the passing on of my most revered, S. Fauja Singh.” He added, “My Turbaned Tornado is no more,” referencing the title of the biography, and also posted a video tribute in honour of the legendary runner.
My Turbaned Tornado is no more. It is with great sadness that I share the passing of my most revered S. Fauja Singh. He was struck by an unidentified vehicle around 3:30 PM today in his village, Bias, while crossing the road. Rest in peace, my dear Fauja . pic.twitter.com/LMFh7TNE8B
— Khushwant Singh (@Singhkhushwant) July 14, 2025
Singh was born in Jalandhar, Punjab, and worked as a farmer before relocating to the United Kingdom. He made headlines around the world for shattering age-based marathon records. His personal best in the London Marathon was 6 hours and 2 minutes in 2003, and he is said to have completed the Toronto Waterfront Marathon in 5 hours and 40 minutes at the reported age of 92. Nicknamed ‘Turbaned Tornado’, ‘Running Baba’, and ‘Sikh Superman’, Singh’s athleticism and spirit earned him admiration across continents.
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