Aged marathoner Fauja Singh died in India at the age of 114 hit by an unknown perpetrator. His incredible history of life and sports records left unsurpassed mark on contemporary culture and motivated people around the world to a healthy lifestyle.
Fauja Singh – who was "Turbaned Tornado"?
The marathon veteran Fauja Singh, a world-wide endurance and inspiration icon, died on 14 July at the age of 114. Tragically hit by an unidentified vehicle while walking near his native village of Bias in Jalandhar District, Punjab. His legacy of immunity will continue. #FaujaSingh
Veteran marathon runner Fauja Singh, a global icon of endurance and inspiration, passed away on July 14 at 114. Tragically struck by an unified vehicle while walking near his native village, Bias, in Punjab’s Jalandhar district. His legacy of residence will live on.... pic.twitter.com/ieHnDSRCLd
— Doordarshan Sports (@ddsportschannel) July 15, 2025
Fauja Singh, known as "Turbaned Tornado", it is a British-Indian marathon player who has become a global icon despite the start of a sports career only in very old age. His résumé could be used as a film script: Singh was born in Punjab on April 1, 1911 and lived in an Indian village for most of his life. Only the loss of loved ones and the move to London made him turn to running at the age of 89. Soon after, thanks to passion and iron discipline, he started running in prestigious street runs around the world.
The tragic death and reactions of the sports world
Fauja Singh died on 14 July 2025, hit while walking by an unknown perpetrator near his hometown in Punjab. Despite his rapid transport to the hospital, he was unable to be rescued. On the news of his death, condolences were sent, among others, by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and famous athletes. In India, mourning was proclaimed for a man who for the rest of his life kept the weather of spirit and motivated subsequent generations to physical activity.
Fauja Singh was living proof that age was just a number. He didn't beat his first "pen" until he was ninety! He competed in marathons in London, Toronto, New York or Hong Kong, repeatedly setting world records in age categories. His sports retirement did not mean the end of his activity – until the last years of his life he still walked a few kilometres daily.
Inspiration for the younger and older
Singh proved that "impossible" does not exist.
He taught not to give up despite adversity and to maintain health and positive attitude.
He proved how great a motivational tool a senior can be for younger generations.
Heritage of "Turbaned Tornado"
In both India and the UK, Fauja Singh will remain a model not only for athletes, but for all those who value activity, modesty and perseverance. His character will forever be synonymous with endurance, passion, and strength of the spirit in overcoming daily difficulties.
Quoting the words of Prime Minister of India, Fauja Singh "was an athlete of incredible determination and inspiration for youth to love movement". A legend like this is born once every hundred years.
