Fauja Singh
Fauja Singh Wikipedia

Fauja Singh, the world's oldest marathon runner and a global symbol of resilience and quiet strength, has died in Punjab at the age of 114. He passed away on 15 July following a suspected hit-and-run near his home in Beas.

Singh's extraordinary journey took him from the wheat fields of British-ruled Punjab to the finish lines of some of the world's most iconic marathons. His life was chronicled in Turbaned Tornado, the 2011 biography that has become all the more poignant in the wake of his death.

A Humble Beginning and a Remarkable Second Act

Born in 1911, Singh lived most of his life as a farmer. His early years were modest and largely unremarkable by public standards. That changed in his 80s, after a series of personal tragedies. Where others may have stopped, Singh chose to move forward — literally. He started running.

It wasn't for fame or attention. It was grief transformed into motion. At the age of 89, he ran his first marathon. By 100, he completed the Toronto Waterfront Marathon, becoming the first known centenarian to finish the full 26.2-mile course. Although the Guinness World Records declined to certify the record due to a lack of documentation, race officials confirmed his age. For Singh, the achievement was not about recognition. It was about the journey.

A Simple Life Powered by Faith and Discipline

Singh was known for his uncomplicated lifestyle. He didn't drink or smoke and followed a vegetarian diet. He often credited his strength to his Sikh faith and a deep sense of purpose.

He wasn't one for slogans, but when he did speak, people listened. Even after retiring from competitive running in 2013, he continued to participate in community events, school visits and charity walks. Always smiling. Always reminding others that age is a number, not a limitation.

'I keep running because it makes me feel alive,' he once said. To those who watched him, it seemed his presence gave others life too.

A Sudden End to a Steady Journey

According to local reports, Singh was out walking when he was struck by a vehicle that fled the scene. Police have launched an investigation, but no suspects have yet been identified.

His funeral is expected to take place later this week. Tributes have poured in from India, the UK and other parts of the world. These have come not only from the Sikh community but also from athletes, writers and admirers who saw in him a powerful example of resilience and purpose.

His Words and His Legacy Endure

Turbaned Tornado, co-written with journalist Khushwant Singh, told the story of a man who turned loss into purpose and ageing into a new beginning. It is a story of perseverance, strength and the choice to keep going, no matter the odds.

Since his passing, libraries and schools have seen renewed interest in the book. Quotes from Singh are circulating widely on social media. One message resonates in particular: move forward, especially when it's difficult.

A Life Without Shortcuts

Fauja Singh is survived by grandchildren, great-grandchildren and countless admirers who were touched by his journey. He didn't run to become a legend. He ran because he believed he could. In doing so, he quietly redefined what strength and endurance can look like.

He never needed a finish line. He just kept going.