Fauja Singh, the legendary figure who is known globally as the world’s oldest marathon runner, unfortunately died at the age of 114 in a road accident on Monday. Singh, born on April 1, 1911, in Beyas village, Jalandhar, Punjab, was knocked down by a car on the Jalandhar-Pathankot highway on Monday afternoon, as per BBC Punjabi. The head-on collision with the car resulted in a serious head injury.
Emergency service personnel promptly took Singh to a local hospital, but failing all medical intervention, he was declared dead at 7:30 pm IST on Monday. His body was preserved in a mortuary as officials wait for the arrival of his children, who are based overseas. His last rites will be performed when the family reunites.
Tributes Pour In from Across the Nation
Punjab Governor Gulab Chand Kataria posted a heartfelt tribute on his official Facebook page, “Extremely saddened to hear of the demise of Sardar Fauja Singh Ji, the great marathon runner and a living testament of courage and hope. Even at the ripe age of 114, he inspired generations with his vigor and determination. It was my privilege to walk alongside him for the two-day ‘Nasha Mukt – Rangla Punjab’ procession from his village Beas, distt Jalandhar in December 2024. Even then, his presence gave the movement an unmatched gusto and energy.”
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
“It is heart-wrenching to know that he lost his life today in a tragic accident on the road in his village. His legacy, though, will always remain in the hearts of those who are struggling towards a healthier, and a drug-free Punjab. My sincere condolences to his family and followers worldwide. May his soul find eternal peace.”
From Grief to Glory: Fauja Singh’s Journey
Fauja Singh’s life was changed after the death of his wife and son, Kuldip. When he was 89 years old, he began to run as a means of healing and overcoming sorrow. He participated in his first marathon in London in 2000, and soon became known for his strength and his late-in-life entry into athletics.
Villagers in Beyas recall his initial passion, and he was always noted to be “running from one spot to another.” He continued to take part in nine complete marathons (42 km) in cities such as London, Toronto, and New York. His personal best was in Toronto, when he ran five hours, 40 minutes, and four seconds.
A Global Symbol of Inspiration
Fauja Singh’s impact went much beyond marathons. He was a 2004 Athens Olympics and 2012 London Olympics torchbearer. His fame skyrocketed after featuring in an international advert campaign with sports heroes such as David Beckham and Muhammad Ali.
His legacy was not merely one of overcoming age barriers but of motivating millions of individuals across the globe to seek health, purpose, and determination regardless of age.
