Milkha Singh | Biography, Achievements, Awards, Spouse, Family & More
Discover the inspiring journey of Milkha Singh, India's legendary sprinter, also known as the Flying Sikh. Explore his early life, career achievements, medals, records, and contributions to Indian athletics.
Deepak Maurya
Mar 1, 2025 08:47
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Milkha Singh: The Flying Sikh of India
Milkha Singh, also known as "The Flying Sikh," was one of India’s greatest athletes, whose journey from a war-torn childhood to becoming a legendary sprinter is an inspiration to millions. His dedication, perseverance, and remarkable achievements in athletics have cemented his legacy as one of the most celebrated sports personalities in India.
Quick Info
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Milkha Singh |
| Born | 20 November 1929, Govindpura, Pakistan |
| Died | 18 June 2021, Chandigarh, India |
| Nationality | Indian |
| Sport | Athletics (Track & Field) |
| Specialization | 200m, 400m sprint |
| Achievements | Asian Games Gold Medalist, Commonwealth Games Gold Medalist, Olympic Finalist |
| Awards | Padma Shri (1959) |
| Nickname | The Flying Sikh |
| Spouse | Nirmal Kaur |
| Children | Jeev Milkha Singh (Golfer) |
Early Life and Struggles
Milkha Singh was born in a Sikh family in undivided India (now Pakistan). The tragic events of the Partition of India in 1947 left him orphaned, forcing him to migrate to India. Struggling for survival, he joined the Indian Army in 1951, where his athletic talent was discovered.
The Rise of a Legend
Entry into Athletics
During his training in the Army, Milkha Singh showcased exceptional speed and endurance. His natural ability caught the attention of his seniors, and he was encouraged to compete in national-level events. Soon, he started dominating India’s sprinting circuit.
National and International Achievements
Milkha Singh’s career took off when he won the National Games of India in 1956. This led to his selection in the 1956 Melbourne Olympics, where he gained valuable experience despite not winning a medal.
Major Achievements & Records
| Year | Event | Medal |
|---|---|---|
| 1958 | Asian Games (400m & 200m) | Gold |
| 1958 | Commonwealth Games (400m) | Gold |
| 1960 | Rome Olympics (400m) | 4th Place |
| 1962 | Asian Games (400m & 4x400m relay) | Gold |
| 1964 | Tokyo Olympics | Competed |
The Iconic Rome Olympics 1960
One of Milkha Singh’s most unforgettable moments was the 400m race at the Rome Olympics in 1960. Leading for most of the race, he unfortunately slowed down in the final stretch and finished fourth. Though he missed a medal, his timing of 45.73 seconds set a national record that stood for nearly 40 years.
Contribution to Indian Sports
After retiring from competitive athletics, Milkha Singh dedicated himself to promoting sports in India. He became the Director of Sports in Punjab and inspired young athletes to achieve excellence. His son, Jeev Milkha Singh, followed in his footsteps and became an acclaimed professional golfer.
Legacy and Recognition
Milkha Singh’s legacy is immortalized in Indian sports history. His autobiography, The Race of My Life, co-written with his daughter, provides an in-depth look at his struggles and triumphs. The Bollywood movie “Bhaag Milkha Bhaag” (2013), starring Farhan Akhtar, was based on his life and received widespread acclaim.
Honors and Awards:
- Padma Shri (1959) – One of India's highest civilian awards.
- National Stadium in Delhi renamed in his honor.
- His personal belongings donated to a museum in Switzerland, alongside legendary athletes like Usain Bolt and Carl Lewis.
Interesting Facts about Milkha Singh
- He was the first Indian athlete to win a Commonwealth Games Gold Medal.
- Despite his fame, he refused the Arjuna Award, stating that it was meant for upcoming athletes, not legends.
- Milkha Singh’s diet included pure ghee and milk, which he believed contributed to his stamina.
- He turned down a lucrative Bollywood offer in the 1960s to focus on athletics.
Conclusion
Milkha Singh’s journey from an orphaned refugee to one of the world’s greatest sprinters is a testament to sheer determination and hard work. His contribution to Indian athletics is unparalleled, and his story continues to inspire aspiring athletes. His legacy as the ‘Flying Sikh’ will forever be etched in the annals of Indian sports history.
FAQs
Q1: Why is Milkha Singh called ‘The Flying Sikh’?
A: Milkha Singh was given this title by Pakistani President Ayub Khan after witnessing his incredible speed in a race.
Q2: How many Olympic medals did Milkha Singh win?
A: Though he didn’t win an Olympic medal, his performance at the 1960 Rome Olympics (4th place) remains one of India’s finest in athletics.
Q3: Which movie is based on Milkha Singh’s life?
A: The Bollywood film “Bhaag Milkha Bhaag” (2013) is based on his autobiography and life journey.
Q4: What is Milkha Singh’s most famous record?
A: His 400m timing of 45.73 seconds at the 1960 Rome Olympics remained an Indian national record for nearly 40 years.
Q5: What awards did Milkha Singh receive?
A: He was honored with Padma Shri (1959) for his contribution to Indian sports.
