Fauja Singh Picture Credit: JEFF J MITCHELL/Getty Images
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday emphasised the importance of sports and fitness in people’s lives, citing the example of Fauja Singh, the oldest marathon runner, during his virtual address to the nation’s youth at the Khelo India Dialogue.
Addressing the youth virtually through a Khelo India Samvad, PM Modi praised Singh as an example of dedication to sports and fitness.
Fauja Singh, likely to be the oldest marathon runner, competed in a marathon at the age of 100. He passed away last year at the age of 114.
Prime Minister said Singh’s life demonstrated the connection between sports, fitness and quality of life, describing his journey as an inspiration for people.
The Prime Minister said sports have emerged as a major profession in India, with people increasingly participating in activities such as triathlons and 5K and 10K races. He pointed to the growing popularity of pickleball and badminton among friends and families.
PM Modi said sports are increasingly becoming part of students’ daily routines rather than being treated merely as a co-curricular activity. He noted that schools giving sports a greater place in students’ lives can expand the country’s talent pool, while greater family support can encourage children who want to pursue sports as a career.
The Prime Minister stressed the importance of sports centres and playgrounds over screens and PlayStations. He said connecting sports with the common man would help build a strong sports culture.
Prime Minister Modi expressed confidence in India’s youth, saying their participation in sports and society represents a source of strength for the country.
Fauja Singh, popularly known as the ‘Turbaned Tornado’, was an Indian-born British marathon runner who became a global symbol of fitness and perseverance.
Born in Punjab in 1911, Fauja Singh took up competitive running in his 80s and, at the age of 100, completed the Toronto Waterfront Marathon in 2011. He died in 2025 at the age of 114.
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