Delhi, 15 July (H.S.): Prime Minister Narendra Modi today condoled the passing of Fauja Singh, celebrating his inspiring persona, unwavering spirit, and exceptional athleticism that motivated generations.

In a post on X, he said:“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 countless admirers around the world.”

Born on April 1, 1911, in Beas Pind, Punjab, Fauja Singh moved abroad and became a British citizen in 1990. Over his career, he set eight records by the age of 100 and retired on his 102nd birthday in 2013.Singh, known as the Turban Tornado, gained fame as a marathon runner, starting his international career at the age of 90. He completed the London marathon in 2004 at age 93 and finished the Toronto marathon at 100 in 2011, earning recognition as the world's oldest marathon runner.

Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar