Milkha Singh's story of struggle and strength will continue to inspire generations: President Ram Nath Kovind, other leaders condole death of Flying Sikh

New Delhi: Legendary Indian sprinter Milkha Singh passed away aged 91 on Friday (June 18, 2021) due to post-COVID complications. As per the PGIMER, Chandigarh, the 'Flying Sikh' left for his heavenly abode at 11.30 pm. 

Following his death, tributes have been pouring in from all sections of societies with President Ram Nath Kovind saying that the passing of the sporting icon fills his heart with grief. 

"The story of his struggles and strength of character will continue to inspire generations of Indians. My deepest condolences to his family members, and countless admirers," the President tweeted.

The passing of sporting icon Milkha Singh fills my heart with grief. The story of his struggles and strength of character will continue to inspire generations of Indians. My deepest condolences to his family members, and countless admirers. — President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) June 18, 2021

Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that in the passing away of Milkha Singh, the nation has lost a 'colossal sportsperson'. He also expressed that Singh had 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," PM Modi said in a tweet.

He added that several budding athletes will derive strength from his life journey. 

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. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) June 18, 2021

Union Home Minister Amit Shah said that Milkha Singh has left 'an indelible mark' on world athletics. 

"Nation will always remember him as one of the brightest stars of Indian sports," Shah said. 

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. pic.twitter.com/HsHMXYHypx — Amit Shah (@AmitShah) June 18, 2021

Several other leaders also paid tributes to Milka Singh.

मैं आपसे वादा करता हूँ मिल्खा सिंह जी कि हम आपकी अंतिम इच्छा को पूरा करेंगे।
India has lost it's star. Milkha Singh Ji has left us but he will continue to inspire every Indian to shine for India. My deepest condolences to the family. I pray for his soul to rest in peace pic.twitter.com/mQVRvfozkB — Kiren Rijiju (@KirenRijiju) June 18, 2021

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! pic.twitter.com/7yK8EOHUnS — Capt.Amarinder Singh (@capt_amarinder) June 18, 2021

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. — Mamata Banerjee (@MamataOfficial) June 18, 2021

Milkha Singh was admitted to the ICU of COVID-19 Hospital of PGIMER on June 3 and was treated there for 10 days before he tested negative. However, due to post-COVID complications, he was shifted out of COVID-19 Hospital to medical ICU.

Earlier, Milkha's 85-year-old wife Nirmal Kaur, who had also been infected by the virus, had passed away in Mohali.