AI Generated Summary
- As the family and villagers of Beas brace for the huge turnout expected at the funeral of legendary marathoner Fauja Singh on Sunday, a touching tribute is taking shape miles away in Moga district.
- Gill, who hails from a farming family, has dedicated the larger statue to Mahan Desh Bhagat Park in his own village, where he has already erected more than 45 statues of national and international legends, including Milkha Singh, Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan, Dr Manmohan Singh, and APJ Abdul Kalam.
- Gill, a trained artist from Chandigarh Arts College, left his government job as a Class 1 officer in the Department of Museums to pursue his passion for sculpting full-time.
As the family and villagers of Beas brace for the huge turnout expected at the funeral of legendary marathoner Fauja Singh on Sunday, a touching tribute is taking shape miles away in Moga district.
Renowned sculptor Manjit Singh Gill, a native of Ghal Kalan village, is meticulously crafting two statues of the late 114-year-old running icon — a 2.5-foot bust for Beas village and a 6-foot full-body statue depicting Singh mid-run.
Gill, who hails from a farming family, has dedicated the larger statue to Mahan Desh Bhagat Park in his own village, where he has already erected more than 45 statues of national and international legends, including Milkha Singh, Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan, Dr Manmohan Singh, and APJ Abdul Kalam.
A Labor of Love and Admiration
Speaking about his inspiration, Gill said,
“I was deeply moved by Fauja Singh’s sudden demise. He was not just a sports legend but a symbol of health and discipline. Youngsters and elderly alike drew inspiration from him — so did I. Just a day after his death, I decided to sculpt him. What began as a simple bust turned into a full-length statue because I wanted to preserve his running legacy.”
The artist’s dedication is evident in the details — the perfectly tied turban, flowing beard, poised running stance, and even the exact style of shoes Singh wore in marathons. Although the finishing touches are still underway, the work has already drawn praise from visitors who have caught glimpses of the sculpture.
Gill, a trained artist from Chandigarh Arts College, left his government job as a Class 1 officer in the Department of Museums to pursue his passion for sculpting full-time. His family, including his brother, son, and daughter, have joined hands to help complete the statues before the funeral.
Village Prepares for Emotional Farewell
Meanwhile, in Beas, preparations for Fauja Singh’s last rites are in full swing. Singh, who tragically died in a hit-and-run accident on July 14, had wished for his funeral to be held in his native village.
His son Harvinder Singh confirmed that family members from across the country are arriving to pay their last respects. The village panchayat is anticipating a massive crowd, with discussions underway to find an alternative venue, as the local crematorium may not be able to accommodate everyone.
A Legacy That Will Run Forever
Fauja Singh, often hailed as the “Turbaned Tornado,” inspired millions worldwide with his marathon feats, many of which he accomplished well past the age of 100. With Gill’s statues set to be installed soon, his legacy will continue to inspire generations — not just through his records, but through the art that immortalizes him.
