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New Delhi: One of independent India’s biggest sporting icons, ace sprinter Milkha Singh, died on Friday after a month-long battle with COVID-19, during which he lost his former national volleyball captain wife Nirmal Kaur to the same ailment.

The Padma Shri awardee, who was nicknamed ‘The Flying Sikh’ for his accomplishments, was 91 and is survived by his golfer son Jeev Milkha Singh and three daughters.

“It is with extreme sadness that we would like to inform you that Milkha Singh Ji passed away at 11.30 pm. on the 18th of June 2021,” read a statement from the family.

“He fought hard but God has his ways and it was perhaps true love and companionship that both our mother Nirmal ji and now Dad have passed away in a matter of 5 days,” it added.

His condition turned critical this evening as he developed complications, including fever and dipping oxygen saturation levels, after a bout with COVID-19, in the Intensive Care Unit of the PGIMER hospital here.

“We are deeply indebted to the doctors at PGI for their valiant efforts and the love and prayers we received from across the world and from yourselves,” the family stated.

The PGIMER also issued a statement and expressed its condolences.

“…despite best of the efforts by a medical team, Milkha Singh ji could not be retrieved from his critical condition and after a brave fight, he left for his heavenly abode at 11:30 pm,” the hospital stated.

PGIMER Director Prof Jagat Ram said Milkha “will be remembered for his exceptional accomplishments on and off the field and his endearing and humane personality.”

Milkha had contracted COVID-19 last month and tested negative for the virus on Wednesday when he was shifted to general ICU in another block of the hospital.

He had been “stable” before Thursday evening.

Milkha’s 85-year-old wife Nirmal, who had also been infected by the virus, passed away at a private hospital in Mohali on Sunday. The couple were suspected to have contracted the infection from a house help.

Milkha was admitted to PGIMER on June 3 after his oxygen levels dipped at home following treatment at the Fortis hospital in Mohali for a week.

The legendary athlete is a four-time Asian Games gold medallist and the 1958 Commonwealth Games champion but his greatest performance remains the fourth-place finish in the 400m final of the 1960 Rome Olympics.

His timing of 45.6 sec at the Italian capital remained the national record for 38 years before Paramjeet Singh broke it in 1998.

He also represented India in the 1956 and 1964 Olympics and was bestowed the Padma Shri in 1959.

After testing positive for COVID-19 on May 19, Milkha had remained in home isolation at his Chandigarh residence till May 23 and was admitted to Fortis hospital in Mohali on May 24 as he kept running fever, had body aches and experienced loss of appetite.

His golfer son Jeev, who was in Dubai at that time, had reached here on May 22 while another daughter Mona Milkha Singh, a doctor in the United States, also arrived here later.

Fortis hospital had earlier diagnosed the couple with “COVID pneumonia”.

While in Fortis, the couple also shared the same room for a few days.

After being admitted to PGIMER earlier this month, Milkha had received a phone call from Prime Minister Narendra Modi, enquiring about his health.

Modi, while condoling Milkha’s demise, remembered that conversation on Friday and said that “little did I know that it would be our last conversation.”

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“In the passing away of Shri Milkha Singh Ji, we have lost a colossal sportsperson, who captured the nation’s imagination and had a special place in the hearts of countless Indians.

“His inspiring personality endeared himself to millions. Anguished by his passing away,” the Prime Minister tweeted.

Milkha died at Chandigarh’s PGIMER hospital, less than a week after he lost his wife Nirmal Kaur, a former national volleyball captain, to the same ailment.

India’s sporting fraternity also paid homage to one of its most inspiring figures, who continued to be a keen observer even after quitting the track.

Olympic-bound star javelin throwers Neeraj Copra tweeted “We lost a Gem. He will always remain as an inspiration for every Indian. May his soul Rest in peace.”

Condoling the death, Home Minister Amit Shah said the one of the brightest stars of Indian sports has been lost.

“India mourns the sad demise of legendary sprinter Shri Milkha Singh Ji, The Flying Sikh. He has left an indelible mark on world athletics. Nation will always remember him as one of the brightest stars of Indian sports. My deepest condolences to his family and countless followers”

Sports Authority of India (SAI) expressed “immense sadness at the demise of one of India’s greatest ever sportspersons ‘The Flying Sikh’ Milkha Singh.

“A gold medalist at the CWG & Asian Games, he held the 400m National record for 38 years. Condolences to his family & the millions whom he inspired,” the SAI said in a tweet.

Athletics Federation of India said in a tweet: “Very very sad news for all #Indians, legend Shri Milkha Singh Ji passed away.”

AFI President Adille Sumariwalla called Milkha “a Titan who lifted the profile of athletics in a young nation…”

“…his sharp observations on Indian sport will be missed. His towering legacy will continue to inspire generations of young Indians. Rest in peace legend.”

“A huge loss for the sport of athletics today. Rest well #MilkhaSingh ji,” Olympian Anju Bobby George tweeted.

“Really shocked by the demise of the legend Milkha sir. You will forever have a very special place in my heart.The Flying Sikh will live forever. RIP” Indian sprinter Mohamad Anas Yahiya.

Former India off-spinner Harbhajan Singh also expressed also expressed his condolences on the micro-blogging site.

“Very sad,heartbreaking to hear flying sikh Sardar Milkha singh ji is no more… waheguru RIPMilkhaSinghji.”

Indian tennis star Sania Mirza said “Had the honour of meeting you and you blessed me so many times .. the kindest and warmest Palms up together RIP Milkha Singh sir .. the world will miss a legend like you ..MilkhaSingh

“Really shocked and sad to learn about the passing away of the legend Milkha Singh ji. Om Shanti,” Javelin thrower Devendra Jhajharia said.

Decorated doubles badminton player Jwala Gutta also joined in expressing her sadness.

“What an inspiration you were to the millions like us . There will be none like you sir Rest in peace legend MilkhaSingh,” she posted.

The official handle of the Indian football team also mourned Milkha’s death.

“We join the nation in mourning the loss of the iconic ‘Flying Sikh’ Milkha Singh. His incredible achievements will continue to inspire future generations. May his soul rest in peace RIP.”

Assam Chief Minsiter Himanata Biswa Sarma said: “Saddened at the demise of Flying Sikh’ Captain Milkha Singh. His laurels had not only made India swell with pride but also inspired generations of sports enthusiasts. My condolences to his family. Om Shanti!”

Indian wicketkeeper batsman Wriddhiman Saha, squash player Joshna Chinappa and shooter Sanjeev Rajput also paid homage to the sprint icon.

“Saddened by the passing away of #MilkhaSingh ji. RIP the Flying Sikh. An inspiration for millions. A great loss to our nation,” Saha tweeted.

“Very saddened to hear about the passing of Milkha Singh Sir. A True Legend and Champion. You will be greatly missed. RIP Sir,” Chinappa wrote.

“A great loss to the nation. Rest in Peace legend #MilkhaSingh ji. Om Shanti,” Rajput tweeted.

All India Football federation president Praful Patel said: “Deeply pained to learn about the passing of ‘The Flying Sikh’ Shri #MilkhaSingh Ji. The legendary athlete made India proud with his sporting achievements & his legacy will continue to be one of the most inspiring stories in Indian sports. May his soul rest in eternal peace”

“Sad to hear about the passing away of legendary Indian sprinter Sardar #MilkhaSingh . He will always remain an inspiration for all. Om Shanti,” Union Minister Praksh Javadekar said.

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In the passing away of Shri Milkha Singh Ji, we have lost a colossal sportsperson, who captured the nation’s imagination and had a special place in the hearts of countless Indians. His inspiring personality endeared himself to millions. Anguished by his passing away.

I had spoken to Shri Milkha Singh Ji just a few days ago. Little did I know that it would be our last conversation. Several budding athletes will derive strength from his life journey. My condolences to his family and many admirers all over the world….NARINDER MODI

India mourns the sad demise of legendary sprinter Shri Milkha Singh Ji, The Flying Sikh. He has left an indelible mark on world athletics. Nation will always remember him as one of the brightest stars of Indian sports. My deepest condolences to his family and countless followers.–AMIT SHAH

Upset and saddened to hear of Milkha Singh Ji’s demise. It marks the end of an era and India & Punjab are poorer today. My condolences to the bereaved family & millions of fans. The legend of the Flying Sikh will reverberate for generations to come. Rest in peace Sir!- CAPT AMARINDER

Saddened to hear about the demise of Shri Milkha Singh Ji. A legendary sportsman, he will be dearly remembered. My sincere condolences to his family, loved ones and fans across the worlD–MAMTA BANERJEE

Hina Khan, Karanvir Bohra and other TV celebs pay tribute to ‘The Flying Sikh’ Milkha Singh

The legendary Olympian turned critical on Friday evening after he developed complications, including fever and dropping of oxygen saturation level

Chandigarh, June 18

Milkha Singh, the Flying Sikh, has flown — and it’s clear that there will be none like him again. The 91-year-old’s fight with Covid-19 ended late Friday night at the PGI, where he had been undergoing treatment for the dreaded virus which took his wife Nirmal’s life five days ago.

He will be cremated at 5 pm on Saturday with full state honours.

His mortal remains have been kept at his Sector 8 residence. 

Milkha Singh, who tested positive for Covid-19 on May 20 after a domestic help at his residence was found infected, was initially admitted to a Mohali hospital before being brought home on May 30. However, he was admitted to the PGI after his oxygen levels fell.

Also read: 

Milkha Singh: An unmatchable romance with a near miss

In Pics: The inspirational journey of the Flying Sikh

For Flying Sikh, self-discipline is the key to fitness

Milkha’s death brings the curtain down on the extraordinary story of this remarkable athlete, whose exploits were retold to the new generation through cinema with the movie Bhag Milkha Bhag. Born in Gobindpura — now in Pakistan — on November 30, 1928, Milkha was violently uprooted from his birthplace by the Partition when riots took the lives of his parents, two sisters and a brother. His life changed for the better when Milkha joined the Army, and it was in this institution that his amazing talent was identified and nurtured. Milkha became the first Indian athlete to win a gold medal at the Commonwealth Games in the 400m division at Cardiff in 1958. The same year he did the 200m-400m double at the Tokyo Asian Games. His most famous race, however, is the 400m final at the 1964 Olympic Games, where he was one of the favourites to get a medal — which he missed by a whisker, ending up fourth. After his career ended, Milkha became a sports administrator.

He is survived by one son — golfer Jeev Milkha Singh — and three daughters.

The legendary Olympian turned critical on Friday evening after he developed complications, including fever and dropping of oxygen saturation level

Chandigarh, June 18

Milkha Singh, the Flying Sikh, has flown — and it’s clear that there will be none like him again. The 91-year-old’s fight with Covid-19 ended late Friday night at the PGI, where he had been undergoing treatment for the dreaded virus which took his wife Nirmal’s life five days ago.

He will be cremated at 5 pm on Saturday with full state honours.

His mortal remains have been kept at his Sector 8 residence. 

Milkha Singh, who tested positive for Covid-19 on May 20 after a domestic help at his residence was found infected, was initially admitted to a Mohali hospital before being brought home on May 30. However, he was admitted to the PGI after his oxygen levels fell.

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Photos from THE TRIBUNE ARCHIVE

Tribune Web Desk

Chandigarh, June 19

The legend of Milkha Singh is one of the most inspiring stories in Indian sports. Here are some rare pictures that capture the amazing journey of the legend who rightly earned the sobriquet of the Flying Sikh.

Also read: Milkha Singh: An unmatchable romance with a near miss

Flying Sikh Milkha Singh dies of Covid complications at 91

 Bollywood mourns demise of Milkha Singh

Part of me is still refusing to accept that you are no more: Farhan Akhtar remembers Milkha Singh

91-year-old Milkha Singh passes away into eternity days after wife’s death | City mourns the legendary athlete

ribune News Service

Chandigarh, June 18

After struggling for nearly a month, legendary Indian sprinter Milkha Singh passed away at the PGI here tonight. The Flying Sikh breathed his last at 11.30 pm.

“With extreme sadness we would like to inform you that Milkha Singh ji passed away at 11.30 pm on June 18, 2021,” read a statement issued by the Milkha family.

“He fought hard but God has his ways and it was perhaps true love and companionship that both our mother, Nirmal ji, and now dad have passed away in a matter of five days,” read the statement.

Milkha’s wife, Nirmal Milkha, a former captain of the Indian women’s volleyball team, died on June 13 due to complications related to Covid-19. “We are deeply indebted to doctors at the PGI for their valiant efforts and the love and prayers we received from across the world,” the statement added.

Earlier in the day, Milkha’s health deteriorated due to fever, followed by desaturation and low pulse.

Legendary Indian sprinter Milkha Singh was admitted to the ICU of the Covid hospital at the PGI on June 3, 2021, and was treated for Covid there till June 13, said PGI spokesperson Prof Ashok Kumar. “After putting up a valiant battle with Covid, Milkha Singh tested negative. However, due to post-Covid complications he was shifted out of the Covid hospital to a medical ICU. Despite best of the efforts by the medical team, Milkha Singh ji could not be retrieved,” said Prof Kumar.

Prof Jagat Ram, Director, PGI, expressed condolences on the demise of the “most revered sporting icon”. “He will be remembered for his exceptional accomplishments on and off the field and his endearing and humane personality,” he said.

A True Love story

With Milkha dying five days after his wife Nirmal passed away, the never forgetting love story continues. While Nirmal was leading the Indian volleyball team in Sri Lanka, Milkha had gone there to compete in an athletics meet. Later, they met at the College of Physical Education, Patiala. The then Punjab Chief Minister Partap Singh Kairon is believed to have intervened to get Milkha and Nirmal married. Since then, the couple was never separated.

Had special place in hearts of indians: PM

}In the passing away of Milkha Singh ji, we have lost a colossal sportsperson, who captured the nation’s imagination and had a special place in the hearts of countless Indians. Anguished by his passing away. Narendra Modi, PM

India has lost its star: Rijiju

}India has lost its star. Milkha Singh ji has left us but he will continue to inspire every Indian to shine for India. Kiren Rijiju, Union Sports Minister

High Court picks holes in Delhi Police chargesheet

Granting bail to student activists Natasha Narwal, Asif Iqbal Tanha and Devangana Kalita, the Delhi High Court has made it clear that the right to protest is guaranteed by the Constitution, and it must not be conflated with terrorism. Booked under the stern Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) for alleged involvement in riots in East Delhi last year, the three were incarcerated for over a year. A three-member Bench of the High Court ruled that Delhi Police’s chargesheet against them had allegations that ‘stretched inferences’ and had ‘alarming and hyperbolic verbiage’. Narwal and Kalita are accused of conspiracy to plan riots and destabilise the government on the pretext of protests against the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) and National Register of Citizens (NRC), while Tanha was accused of planning and organising protests across Delhi.

There was one underlying theme in three separate judgments on the accused — that Delhi Police had failed to provide any evidence to support the grave charges of terrorism or inciting violence. In the case of Narwal and Kalita, the Bench observed that the allegations against them ‘are not even borne out’ by the material on which they are based; in the case of Tanha, the Bench ruled that ‘there is absolutely nothing’ in the chargesheet that might link him to terrorism. The court noted that ‘it seems that in its anxiety to suppress dissent, in the mind of the state, the line between the constitutionally guaranteed right to protest and terrorist activity seems to be getting somewhat blurred’. ‘If this mindset gains traction, it would be a sad day for democracy,’ it added.

Democracy is strengthened, not weakened, by plurality of opinion and the freedom to express it. Democracy is weakened when wild allegations of terrorism and sedition are foisted on people to muzzle them. As the High Court noted, ‘The foundations of our nation stand on surer footing than to be likely to be shaken by a protest, however vicious, organised by a tribe of college students or other persons’. People protesting peacefully for their ideals are an important element of a democracy — invoking the most severe penal provisions against them belittles democracy and trivialises terrorism.

Chandigarh, June 17

A new book, “With Honour and Glory: Five Great Artillery Battles”, that weaves a coherent narrative of the evolution of artillery and the lessons to be imbibed from the historic battles in which big guns played a decisive role has been authored by Maj Gen AJS ‘Abdo’ Sandhu (retd).

The book has been published under the aegis of the United Services Institute of India’s Centre for Military History and Conflict Studies. It was released by Lt Gen Raj Shukla, GOC-in-C, Army Training Command, who is the senior-most serving officer of the Indian Army’s Regiment of Artillery.

Spanning iconic artillery battles across four continents and 136 years, it includes the battles of Gettysburg (1863), Vimy Ridge (1917), Bir Hacheim (1942), Chhamb (1971) and Tololing/Tiger Hill (1999).

The project to write a book of such depth and span was conceived by the Directorate of Artillery, Army HQs, and handed over to the USI for execution. The first print of the book has been distributed by the Directorate of Artillery to the School of Artillery, Devlali, and all formations and regiments of the artillery, and the second print will soon be made available in the public domain. — TNS