Milkha Singh, often known as ‘The Flying Sikh,’ was an Indian track and field sprinter who has represented his country with distinction numerous times. He was the epitome of grit, determination, and excitement. Milkha, who died late at night on June 18, 2021, at the age of 91, from post-Covid complications, was an inspiration to everyone. Milkha’s path to success is a hero’s journey, beginning with his sporting achievements and culminating in national recognition. Milkha was born in 1929 and reared with 14 siblings till the partition orphaned him. Prior to the partition, eight of his siblings died.
Milkha saw the murders of his parents, two sisters, and a brother during the division. Milkha had a particularly tough upbringing. Milkha planned to become a dacoit to make ends meet after being imprisoned for riding a train without a ticket and spending time in a refugee camp in Purana Qila, but with the help of his brother’s persuasion, Milkha joined the Indian army, and this is when his life changed. Milkha had to run 10 kilometers to and from school, as depicted in the film ‘Bhaag Milkha Bhaag,’ which inspired him to take up running as a sport. His training was aided by the army, and his speed and determination were impressive.
After that, Milkha had no choice but to move forward. Milkha was persuaded by then-Indian Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru to engage in a race against Pakistan’s Abdul Khaliq in 1960. Milkha eventually won the race and was dubbed “The Flying Sikh” by then-General Ayub Khan after crossing the finish line in 45.8 seconds. Milkha was honored with the Padma Shri Award in 1959 for his achievements at the Asian Games in 1958. He then became the Director of Sports for the Punjab Ministry of Education.
Source- Khel Now