The man who broke every stereotype and proved that age is just a number inspired generations and redefined human limits. The legendary marathon runner Fauja Singh has died at the age of 114 in a tragic road accident. Globally known as the “Turbaned Tornado,” Fauja Singh wasn’t just a runner. He was a symbol of hard work, perseverance, and the human spirit. His story inspired millions of people, and now his sudden death has left an empty feeling.
Who Was Fauja Singh?
Fauja Singh was a British Sikh marathon runner. He was born on April 1, 1911, in Beas village, Jalandhar, Punjab. Despite breaking several world records in various age groups, none of them were officially recognized as records. In the 2003 Toronto Waterfront Marathon, he achieved a personal best time of 6 hours 2 minutes, and for the London Marathon, at the age of 92, he set a marathon best of 5 hours 40 minutes for the 90+ age group.
Fauja Singh’s Cause Of Death
On Monday afternoon, he was struck by a car on the Jalandhar-Pathankot route. He sustained a severe head wound. Fauja was taken to a hospital right away. But on Monday at 7:30 p.m. IST, he passed away.
Fauja Singh was struck by an unidentified car while out for a walk in Beas village, according to a Jalandhar police source who also confirmed his death. Fauja Singh passed away in the evening after suffering head injuries.
Hardeep Singh, the SHO of the Adampur Police Station in Jalandhar, stated that the negligent motorist, who has not yet been identified, ran away following the incident.
Author Khushwant Singh Confirmed His Death
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
The experienced runner was transferred to a private hospital in Jalandhar, where he passed away from his injuries, according to Khushwant Singh, author of the biography of Fauja Singh, The Turbaned Tornado.
Author Khushwant Singh confirmed his death after speaking with Fauja Singh’s relatives. “I no longer have a Turbaned Tornado. I regret to inform you of the loss of my most respected, S. Fauja Singh. Around 3:30 p.m. today, he was crossing the street in his town of Beas when he was hit by an unknown car. My dear Fauja, rest in peace,” Khushwant wrote on X.
PM Narendra Modi Pays Tribute To Fauja Singh
Fauja Singh Ji was extraordinary because of his unique persona and the manner in which he inspired the youth of India on a very important topic of fitness. He was an exceptional athlete with incredible determination. Pained by his passing away. My thoughts are with his family and…
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) July 15, 2025
The world lost a live example of determination, not just a marathon runner. At the age of 114, Fauja Singh, who defied age and norms to become a global inspiration, died. His story was about the millions of hearts he touched, not just the miles he ran. His path was nothing short of legendary, from inspiring young people to pursue fitness to pounding streets well past the age of 100.
In his touching tribute, Prime Minister Narendra Modi referred to him as a mentor for India’s youth and an “exceptional athlete with incredible determination.” As word of his passing spread, condolences and expressions of appreciation came from all across the world, reminding us all of the legacy that would remain long after his final days.
Punjab Governor Gulab Chand Kataria stated in a post on his official Facebook page:
“We are deeply saddened by the loss of Sardar Fauja Singh Ji, the renowned marathon runner and a timeless representation of fortitude and optimism. He inspired generations by his strength and dedication, even at the age of 114. In December 2024, I had the privilege of marching with him on the two-day ‘Nasha Mukt – Rangla Punjab’ march from his village, Beas, in the district of Jalandhar. Even at that time, his presence gave the campaign an unmatched spirit and vitality.”
Even though Fauja Singh’s last marathon was his final one, his legacy will live on in the footsteps of everyone he touched. His life was an example of what the human will can achieve and do at any age, rising from modest beginnings to become a worldwide symbol of perseverance and hard work.
Despite the heartbreaking road accident that claimed the life of a wonderful soul, generations to come will be guided by his legacy of perseverance, discipline, and optimism. In addition to running marathons, he ran into eternity, into hearts, and history.
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