PM Modi mourns Fauja Singh’s death, calls him ‘exceptional athlete’ who inspired youth

Veteran marathon runner Fauja Singh

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday expressed grief over the demise of legendary marathon runner Fauja Singh, calling him “extraordinary” for the way he inspired Indian youth to embrace fitness. “He was an exceptional athlete with incredible determination. Pained by his passing away. My thoughts are with his family and countless admirers around the world,” PM Modi wrote on X.

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

Fauja Singh, who was widely celebrated for running marathons well past the age of 100, died late Monday evening at the age of 114.

He was struck by an unidentified vehicle while out for a walk in his native village in Punjab’s Jalandhar district. Singh was immediately rushed to a private hospital in Jalandhar but succumbed to his injuries during treatment.

Condolences poured in from across the country for the centenarian athlete, who had become a global symbol of resilience and healthy ageing.

Punjab Governor and Chandigarh Administrator Gulab Chand Kataria said he was “deeply saddened” by Singh’s passing. Remembering the sprightly runner’s commitment to social causes, he said: “At 114, he joined me in the ‘Nasha Mukt, Rangla Punjab’ march with unmatched spirit. His legacy will continue to inspire a drug-free Punjab. Om Shanti Om.”

Former Punjab Chief Minister and BJP leader Captain Amarinder Singh also mourned the loss. “His extraordinary life and unwavering spirit will continue to inspire generations. May his soul rest in peace,” he posted.

Singh, often called the “Turbaned Tornado,” became a global icon for defying age and limitations. He ran his first marathon at 89 and went on to complete several international races, inspiring millions with his lifelong discipline and cheerful perseverance.