Milkha

Milkha Singh (20 November 1929 – 18 June 2021), commonly known simply as Milkha or Milkha Singh, was an Indian track and field sprinter who specialised in the 400 metres. He earned the nickname the Flying Sikh for his speed and endurance on the track and is considered one of India’s greatest athletes in sprinting.

Born in Govindpura, Muzaffargarh district (present-day Pakistan), Milkha Singh’s family was displaced during the Partition of India. After arriving in India, he joined the Indian Army and began athletics training, under coach Om Prakash. During the 1950s and early 1960s, he established himself as India's leading 400 metres sprinter, winning national titles and earning medals at Asian Games.

In the 1960 Rome Olympics, Milkha Singh reached the final and finished fourth in the 400 metres, one of India’s best finishes in track and field at the time. His achievements helped raise the profile of Indian athletics on the world stage.

Milkha Singh’s life story has been celebrated in popular culture, most notably in the 2013 film Bhaag Milkha Bhaag, which portrays his experiences during Partition and his athletic career. He remained a prominent figure in Indian sport and a source of inspiration for many athletes.

Milkha Singh died on 18 June 2021 in Chandigarh due to complications related to COVID-19. His legacy endures in Indian athletics and in popular memory of his “Flying Sikh” moniker.