India on Saturday mourned the loss of track legend Milkha Singh. He overcame childhood tragedy to seek Olympic glory. He died aged 91 following a long battle with Covid-19. Singh was dubbed the ‘Flying Sikh’. His wife had also died from the virus earlier in the week. Prime Minister Narendra Modi led the tributes for Singh, writing that India had “lost a colossal sportsperson, who captured the nation’s imagination and had a special place in the hearts of countless Indians.” Cricket icon Sachin Tendulkar said Singh’s legacy would live on. “Rest in Peace our very own ‘Flying Sikh’ Milkha Singh ji,” he tweeted. “Your demise has left a deep void in every Indian’s heart today, but you shall keep inspiring several generations to come.” Indian women’s tennis star Sania Mirza said the “world will miss a legend like you”. He first tested positive for the virus on May 20 according to Indian media. Singh is survived by three daughters and one son, leading pro golfer Jeev Milkha Singh. Singh was born in 1929 in Govindpura, in what is now Pakistan. He shot to fame at the 1960 Olympics in Rome when he finished fourth in the 400m after a photo-finish was required to decide the winner.
