Discover the remarkable life of Milkha Singh, India’s legendary sprinter known as “The Flying Sikh.” This biography delves into his early struggles, phenomenal career, personal life, and lasting impact on Indian sports and culture, showcasing the resilience and determination that made him a national hero.

Quick Facts: Milkha Singh

Essential Information

• Full Name: Milkha Singh
• Date of Birth: November 20, 1929
• Place of Birth:  Govindpura, Muzaffargarh, Punjab, British India (now in Pakistan)
• Died: June 18, 2021
• Age (at time of passing): 91
• Nationality: Indian
• Occupation: Athlete, Sports Administrator
• Known For: Being the first Indian to reach the final of an Olympic athletics event, earning the nickname “The Flying Sikh.”
• Education: Limited formal education
• Spouse: Nirmal Kaur (married in 1962)
• Children: 3 (Jeev Milkha Singh, Mona Singh, and Aleeza Singh)
• Grandchildren: 5 (including golfer Jeev Milkha Singh’s children)
• Parents: Sardar Tera Singh (Father) and Sikhwat Kaur (Mother)

Additional Details

• Zodiac Sign:  Scorpio
• Siblings: Multiple siblings, most tragically lost during the Partition of India
• Residence: Chandigarh, India (at the time of his death)
• Height and Weight: Approximately 5’9″ (175 cm), athletic build
• Hobbies and Interests: Sports, spending time with family
• Awards and Honors: Padma Shri, Arjuna Award
• Philanthropy: Supported various sports initiatives
• Social Media: Limited social media presence during his lifetime
• Net Worth: Not publicly disclosed
• Fun Facts: He overcame a difficult childhood, including losing his family during the Partition

Career-Specific Information

• Field of Expertise: 400-meter running
• Sporting Achievements: Olympic Gold Medalist (Rome, 1960), Asian Games Champion (1958, 1962), Commonwealth Games Champion (1958)
• Career Highlights: Breaking the national record multiple times, inspiring generations of athletes
• Organizations: Associated with the Indian Army and later involved in sports administration
• Mentors or Influences: Coaches and mentors within the Indian Army

​Additional facts about Milkha Singh

• Early Life: Milkha Singh was born in a Sikh family and grew up in a small village in Punjab. He was the youngest of 15 siblings, and his family struggled financially.
• Partition of India: During the Partition of India in 1947, Milkha’s family was forced to flee their home in Pakistan and move to India. He witnessed the brutal killings of his parents and siblings during this time.
• Discovery of Talent: Milkha was introduced to athletics while serving in the Indian Army. His coach, Havildar Gurdev Singh, encouraged him to take up running.
• Training: Milkha trained barefoot, running up to 100 km per week. He also trained on a dirt track, which helped him build endurance.
• Rome Olympics (1960): Milkha Singh won the 400m gold medal at the Rome Olympics, setting a new national record (45.73 seconds).
• Asian Games: Milkha won gold medals at the 1958 and 1962 Asian Games.
• Commonwealth Games: Milkha won gold medals at the 1958 Commonwealth Games.
• Nicknamed “The Flying Sikh”: Milkha earned this nickname due to his exceptional speed and Sikh heritage.
• Post-Athletics Career: After retiring from athletics, Milkha was a sports coach and later became Sports Director in Punjab.
• Awards and Honors: Milkha received the Padma Shri (1959), Arjuna Award (1961), and Maharaja Ranjit Singh Award (1962).
• Biopic: A biographical film, “Bhaag Milkha Bhaag” (2013), was made about his life. It stars Farhan Akhtar as Milkha Singh.
• Legacy: Milkha Singh is considered one of India’s greatest athletes, inspiring generations of athletes and sports enthusiasts.

The Unyielding Spirit of the Flying Sikh: A Biography of Milkha Singh

 

I. Introduction

Milkha Singh, affectionately known as “The Flying Sikh,” is synonymous with resilience, dedication, and athletic excellence in India. Born in turmoil and raised in the shadows of tragedy, Milkha’s life is a testament to the unyielding human spirit. His journey from a partition refugee to becoming one of the world’s most celebrated athletes is a story of grit and glory. This biography explores the life of a man who not only ran to win medals but also ran to overcome the scars of his past, inspiring millions in the process.

II. Origin and Family Background

Birth and Early Life

Born on November 20, 1929, into a Sikh Rathore Rajput family, Milkha Singh hailed from Govindpura, a village ten kilometres from Muzaffargarh in Punjab Province, British India (now Kot Adu district, Pakistan). His early years were marked by the simplicity of rural life, surrounded by the lush fields of Punjab. However, his life took a drastic turn during the Partition of India in 1947, a cataclysmic event that would leave a lasting imprint on him. One of fifteen siblings, he tragically lost eight before India’s partition. The communal violence that followed claimed the lives of his parents and two sisters, leaving him orphaned.

Family Background

Milkha was born into a Sikh family with deep roots in Punjab. His parents were modest farmers, and he was one of 15 siblings. The Singh family was steeped in Sikh traditions, emphasising discipline, hard work, and spirituality. The Partition of India in 1947 tragically claimed the lives of most of his family members, including his parents and siblings. This loss profoundly impacted Milkha, leaving him to fend for himself in a newly independent India.

Cultural and Religious Influences

Growing up in a Sikh household, Milkha was deeply influenced by the teachings of Sikhism, which emphasize resilience, self-reliance, and a deep sense of community. These values would later shape his approach to life and athletics. The Sikh philosophy of Chardi Kala (relentless optimism) became a guiding principle for him, helping him navigate the challenges of his life, especially during the devastating events of Partition.

III. Early Life

Childhood Experiences

Milkha’s childhood was disrupted by the violence and chaos of the Partition. As a young boy, he witnessed the horrors of communal riots, where he lost his parents and siblings. These traumatic experiences forced him to flee from Pakistan to India, an ordeal that required immense courage. These early life experiences instilled in him a sense of resilience and a desire to rise above his circumstances.

Resettling in India

To escape the ongoing bloodshed, he fled to Delhi in 1947. Initially finding refuge with a married sister, Singh faced further hardship when he was imprisoned in Tihar Jail for ticketless travel. His sister’s sacrifice of jewellery secured his release. Subsequently, he lived in a refugee camp at Purana Qila before settling in a resettlement colony in Shahdara, both in Delhi.

The trauma of losing his family and being displaced in a new country was overwhelming. During this period, Milkha struggled to find his footing, even briefly considering a life of crime due to the desperate circumstances. However, his inherent discipline and an opportunity to join the Indian Army helped him steer his life in a positive direction.

Discovering Athletics

It was within the disciplined environment of the Indian Army that Milkha Singh’s extraordinary athletic potential was unearthed. The military’s emphasis on physical fitness highlighted his natural speed and endurance. Initially participating in army sports events, his superiors quickly recognised his talent. Running evolved into more than just a sport for Milkha; it became a therapeutic outlet, a means to channel the raw pain and anger stemming from his traumatic past into something constructive. This pivotal discovery marked the inception of a legendary athletic journey.

IV. Education

Formal Education

Milkha Singh’s formal education was limited due to the disruptions caused by Partition. His schooling was erratic, as his family’s displacement and subsequent survival struggles took precedence over academic pursuits. However, his time in the Indian Army was an informal discipline, strategy, and physical training education. The army’s structured environment gave Milkha the education and resources he needed to hone his athletic abilities.

Influence of Coaches and Mentors

In the army, Milkha’s talent did not go unnoticed. He was mentored by dedicated coaches who recognized his potential and guided him to pursue athletics seriously. These mentors instilled in him the technical skills of sprinting and the psychological toughness required to compete at the highest levels. The Indian Army played a crucial role in Milkha’s transformation from a promising talent to a world-class athlete, providing him with the training, support, and motivation needed to excel.

V. Career

Early Athletic Career

Milkha Singh’s athletic career began in the Indian Army, where he first competed in military sports events. His early victories at the inter-services level provided him with the confidence to pursue athletics more seriously. His breakthrough came when he won his first national title, marking the beginning of a stellar career that would make him one of India’s greatest athletes.

National and International Competitions

Numerous victories and records highlight Milkha Singh’s national and international career. He represented India at the 1956 Melbourne Olympics, his first exposure to international competition. Though he did not win a medal, the experience was invaluable. His major breakthrough came at the 1958 Commonwealth Games in Cardiff, where he won India’s first-ever gold medal in athletics in the 440-yard event. This victory catapulted him to national fame.

A heart-wrenching 0.1 seconds separated Milkha Singh from an Olympic medal in the 400m race at Rome in 1960. Despite leading for much of the race, a cruel twist of fate saw him finish a heartbreaking fourth.

His most iconic race, however, was the 400-meter final at the 1960 Rome Olympics Games. Despite finishing fourth, missing the bronze by a whisker, Milkha’s performance was legendary. His time of 45.73 seconds remained a national record for almost 40 years. Though a source of deep personal disappointment, this race solidified his status as a global sprinting legend.

“I knew what my fatal error was,” Milkha Singh said. “After running perilously fast in lane five, I slowed down at 250m and could not cover the lost ground after that, and that cost me the race.”

“He says that it was the biggest mistake of my life and that he cannot forgive himself,” Jeev Milkha Singh told Olympics.com.

Challenges and Setbacks

Milkha Singh’s career was not without challenges. The disappointment of missing an Olympic medal in Rome weighed heavily on him. Additionally, injuries and the pressures of being a national icon took their toll. Despite these setbacks, Milkha’s resilience shone through. He continued to compete, win, and set records, earning respect for his indomitable spirit. His ability to overcome adversity became a defining characteristic of his career.

Retirement from Competitive Athletics

After retiring from competitive athletics, Milkha Singh transitioned to a role as a mentor and public figure. He continued to contribute to Indian sports, particularly by inspiring and guiding young athletes. His post-retirement life was dedicated to giving back to the community and promoting sports in India. He also remained active in various social causes, advocating for the country’s sports infrastructure development.

VI. Personal Life

Relationships and Marriage

Milkha Singh married Nirmal Kaur, a former captain of the Indian women’s volleyball team. Their marriage was one of mutual respect and shared values. The couple symbolised a strong, supportive partnership in Indian sports circles. Together, they raised a family, instilling in their children the same values of discipline, hard work, and humility that had guided their own lives.

Children and Family Life

Milkha and Nirmal had five children, including Jeev Milkha Singh, a successful professional golfer. The Singh family was close-knit, and Milkha stressed the importance of education, discipline, and maintaining a grounded lifestyle despite their fame. His children, especially Jeev, carried forward Milkha’s legacy in the world of sports, bringing further pride to the family name.

A Childhood Marked by Tragedy: The Partition Massacre

During the Partition of India in 1947, Milkha Singh, then a young boy, witnessed a horrific event that would scar him for life. His village in Govindpura, now in Pakistan, was engulfed in communal violence. In a brutal attack, most of Milkha’s family, including his parents and siblings, were murdered in front of him. Amid the chaos, his father, in his dying moments, urged Milkha to flee to save his life. Milkha managed to escape the massacre, running for his life towards India. This traumatic event profoundly shaped his resilience and determination, driving his future achievements in athletics.

Hobbies and Interests

Outside of athletics, Milkha Singh was a man of varied interests. He had a passion for fitness and believed in maintaining a disciplined lifestyle. He also enjoyed travelling and was an advocate for sports and physical education. Milkha was deeply involved in philanthropic activities, particularly in supporting underprivileged athletes. His life beyond the track was characterized by a commitment to giving back to society and promoting the values he held dear.

Late Life Years in Chandigarh

In his later years, Milkha Singh settled in Chandigarh, where he lived a peaceful yet active life. Even after retiring from competitive sports, he remained deeply involved in athletics, mentoring young athletes and promoting sports in India. He often shared his experiences and wisdom, becoming a beloved figure in the community. Milkha was also engaged in various charitable activities, particularly through the Milkha Singh Charitable Trust, which he established to support underprivileged athletes. Despite advancing, he maintained his fitness and disciplined lifestyle, continuing to inspire others until his passing in June 2021.

Death in 2021 Due to COVID-19

Milkha Singh passed away on June 18, 2021, at the age of 91, due to complications related to COVID-19. He was treated at the Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER) in Chandigarh. His death marked the end of an era for Indian athletics, and the nation mourned the loss of a true sports legend. His passing came just days after his wife, Nirmal Kaur, also succumbed to the virus, marking a profound loss for the family.

VII. Notable Achievements and Awards

Sporting Honors

Milkha Singh’s sporting career is studded with numerous accolades. He won several national and international titles, with the 1958 Commonwealth Games gold medal his most significant achievement. He also won multiple gold medals at the Asian Games in 1958 and 1962, establishing himself as one of the leading sprinters in Asia.

Awards and Recognitions

In 1959, Milkha Singh was awarded the Padma Shri, India’s fourth-highest civilian award, for his contributions to Indian athletics. This honour was a testament to his impact on Indian sports and his role as a national icon. Over the years, he received numerous other awards and honours from the government and various sports organizations, celebrating his achievements and contributions to athletics.

Here is a detailed list of awards and honours received by Milkha Singh,

1. Padma Shri (1959)
   • This is one of India’s highest civilian awards, given to Milkha Singh in recognition of his outstanding achievements in athletics. It highlighted his contribution to Indian sports and his role as a national icon.
2. Gold Medal – 1958 Commonwealth Games
   • Milkha Singh won the gold medal in the 440-yard event at the 1958 Commonwealth Games in Cardiff, Wales. This was India’s first-ever gold medal in athletics at the Commonwealth Games, marking a significant achievement in Indian sports history.
3. Gold Medals – Asian Games (1958 & 1962)
   • Milkha Singh won two gold medals in the 200-meter and 400-meter events at the 1958 Asian Games in Tokyo, Japan. He then won two gold medals in the 400-meter and 4×400-meter relay events at the 1962 Asian Games in Jakarta, Indonesia.
4. Helms World Trophy (1959)
   • Awarded by the Helms Athletic Foundation, this international honour recognizes Milkha Singh as one of the world’s best athletes for his athletic achievements.
5. Recognition at the 1960 Rome Olympics
   •  Although he narrowly missed a medal, finishing fourth in the 400 meters, Milkha Singh’s performance at the 1960 Rome Olympics was highly praised. His time of 45.73 seconds set a national record that stood for nearly 40 years.
6. Honours from the Indian Army
   • Throughout his career, Milkha Singh received several honours and promotions from the Indian Army, acknowledging his contributions to sports and his service as a soldier.
7. Special Awards and Recognition from Various Sports Organizations
   • Over the years, Milkha Singh was honoured by numerous sports organizations and government bodies, both in India and internationally, for his contributions to athletics and his inspirational journey.
8. Commemorative Events and Memorials
   •  Several events and memorials have been established posthumously in Milkha Singh’s honour, including awards, scholarships, and sports events named after him, ensuring his legacy continues to inspire future generations.

These awards reflect the immense respect and admiration that Milkha Singh garnered throughout his life for his unparalleled athletics achievements and enduring impact on Indian sports.

The Birth of “The Flying Sikh”: A Race That Transcended Borders

In 1960, during an international athletics competition in Lahore, Pakistan, Milkha Singh was invited to compete against the country’s best sprinter, Abdul Khaliq. The race was intensely anticipated, with national pride at stake for both countries. Milkha, still haunted by the memories of Partition, initially hesitated but ultimately agreed to race. He won the race with extraordinary speed and determination, leaving his competitors far behind. Impressed by his performance, Pakistan’s President, General Ayub Khan, famously remarked, “You didn’t run today, you flew.” From that day on, Milkha Singh was celebrated as “The Flying Sikh,” a title that immortalized his legacy.

Cultural Impact

Milkha Singh’s legacy transcended the world of sports. The title “The Flying Sikh,” given to him by Pakistan’s General Ayub Khan, symbolized his exceptional talent and the respect he commanded across borders. His life story became the subject of the famous Bollywood biopic “Bhaag Milkha Bhaag,” further cementing his status as a cultural icon in India. The film brought his inspiring story to a new generation, ensuring his legacy would endure.

Bollywood Biopic “Bhaag Milkha Bhaag”

In 2013, Milkha Singh’s extraordinary life story was immortalized in the Bollywood biopic “Bhaag Milkha Bhaag.” Directed by Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra and starring Farhan Akhtar as Milkha Singh, the film vividly portrays his journey from a partition-ravaged childhood to becoming India’s most celebrated sprinter. The movie captures the emotional and physical struggles Milkha endured, emphasizing the resilience and determination earned him the title “The Flying Sikh.” The film was a commercial and critical success, bringing Milkha Singh’s inspiring story to a global audience and further solidifying his legacy in Indian culture.

VIII. Challenges and Controversies

Struggles with Bureaucracy

Throughout his career, Milkha Singh faced challenges with the sports bureaucracy in India. Despite his achievements, he often had to fight for adequate support and recognition. His struggles with the system highlighted the need for reforms in Indian sports administration, a cause he championed in his later years.

Public Criticism

Milkha Singh was not immune to public criticism. After his near miss at the Rome Olympics, some questioned his performance and mental toughness. However, Milkha took these criticisms in stride, using them as motivation to push harder. His response to criticism showcased his resilience and determination to prove his detractors wrong.

Handling Fame

As a national hero, Milkha Singh had to navigate the pressures of fame. The burden of being a symbol of national pride was immense, and Milkha had to carefully balance public expectations with his personal life. He managed this with humility and grace, remaining true to his values and never letting fame overshadow his principles.

A Controversial Moment at the Rome Olympics: The Incident with Foreign Women

The 1960 Rome Olympics was a defining moment in Milkha Singh’s career. He was not just representing India; he was carrying the hopes of a nation eager to see him clinch an Olympic medal. Milkha was in prime form, and expectations were sky-high as he prepared to compete in the 400 meters, an event in which he was considered a strong contender.

However, in the days leading up to the final race, Milkha found himself in a situation that would later be a source of great regret. While in the Olympic Village, he encountered a group of foreign women fascinated by his athletic prowess and celebrity status. The attention was flattering, and Milkha, like many young athletes on the global stage for the first time, enjoyed the camaraderie and excitement of being an international sports star. This led to a night of socializing that, by some accounts, included dining, dancing, and revelry—activities that were far from the disciplined regimen typically maintained by athletes before a major competition.

The following day, Milkha stepped onto the track for the 400-meter final. Although he was physically prepared, there was a nagging sense that the previous night’s events might have affected his mental focus and physical sharpness. The race itself was one of the most competitive in Olympic history. Milkha started strong but seemed to lose momentum in the final stretch, ultimately finishing fourth with a time of 45.73 seconds, just a fraction of a second shy of winning the bronze medal.

This near miss haunted Milkha Singh for years. He later acknowledged that the distraction caused by the encounter with the foreign women could have affected his performance. The incident became part of Olympic lore and was a talking point in discussions about athletes’ pressures and temptations, especially on the world’s biggest stage.

Despite the controversy, this episode did not overshadow Milkha Singh’s legendary status. It served as a poignant reminder of the fine line athletes must walk between their public personas and the demands of their sport. Milkha’s ability to reflect on this incident honestly only added to the respect and admiration he garnered throughout his life.

IX. Legacy and Impact

Lasting Influence on Indian Athletics

Milkha Singh’s influence on Indian athletics is profound and enduring. He inspired generations of athletes to strive for excellence, proving that Indians could compete at the highest levels internationally. His story is often cited as an example of how determination and hard work can overcome even the most challenging circumstances. Established in his honour, the Milkha Singh Charitable Trust supports underprivileged athletes, ensuring his legacy lives on.

Cultural and National Legacy

Milkha Singh’s life is a symbol of post-independence Indian resilience and pride. He represented the aspirations of a newly independent nation, and his successes on the global stage brought immense pride to India. His life story, marked by tragedy and triumph, resonates deeply with the Indian public. Milkha’s legacy is celebrated not just as a sportsman but as a national hero who embodied the spirit of India.

Commemoration and Memorials

Milkha Singh’s passing in June 2021 was a moment of national mourning in India. Tributes poured in from across the country and the world, celebrating his life and legacy. Memorials have been established in his honour, and numerous awards and scholarships bear his name, ensuring that future generations remember and are inspired by “The Flying Sikh.” His story continues to be told and retold, a testament to his enduring impact on Indian culture and sports.

To Hell with the Olympics

To Hell with the Olympics is a captivating autobiography that offers an intimate look into Milkha Singh’s life. It’s more than just a sports biography; it’s a tale of resilience, triumph over adversity, and the indomitable spirit of a nation.

Key themes explored in the book:

• Overcoming adversity: Singh’s journey from a refugee of the Partition to an Olympic athlete is inspirational.
• The power of discipline and hard work: The book highlights Singh’s rigorous training regimen and unwavering dedication to his craft.
• The spirit of India: Singh’s story is intertwined with the aspirations and dreams of a newly independent India.

X. Conclusion

Reflection on Milkha Singh’s Life

Milkha Singh’s life is a story of incredible resilience, determination, and triumph. From the horrors of Partition to the heights of international athletic success, he overcame every obstacle with unwavering resolve. His journey is a source of inspiration not just for athletes but for anyone facing adversity.

Enduring Lessons

The enduring lessons from Milkha Singh’s life are perseverance, dedication, and the power of the human spirit. He demonstrated that hard work and a positive attitude can overcome even the most daunting challenges. Milkha’s story teaches us the importance of never giving up, no matter the odds.

Final Anecdote or Quote

As Milkha Singh once said, “The will to win is important, but the will to prepare is vital.” This quote encapsulates the essence of his life—a life built on hard work, preparation, and an unyielding will to succeed. His legacy will continue to inspire generations to come, and he is a shining example of what can be achieved with determination and courage.