Remembering the Flying Sikh on His Death Anniversary
( Prof. S. S. Dogra)
June 18 is a day of remembrance for millions of Indians. On this day in 2021, India lost one of its greatest sporting legends, Milkha Singh, popularly known as the “Flying Sikh.” Although he is no longer with us, his achievements, humility, and inspiring life continue to motivate people across the world.
I was fortunate to meet Milkha Singh Ji on a few occasions and speak with him several times over the phone. My first meeting with him was in 2011 at the launch of an English sports magazine, where he was the Chief Guest. When I introduced myself, he greeted me warmly and made me feel comfortable despite his busy schedule. Unfortunately, I could not interview him that day.
I had the privilege of meeting Milkha Singh Ji again on December 24, 2016, during the Annual Sports Day of Sri Venkateshwar International School, Dwarka, New Delhi. The school principal, Ms. Neeta Arora, graciously introduced me to him on the stage. To my pleasant surprise, despite our brief meeting several years earlier, he immediately recognized me and warmly addressed me by my name. I was deeply impressed by his extraordinary memory, humility, and affectionate nature. Cherishing that special moment, I captured this memorable photograph, which remains one of my most treasured keepsakes. Although I once again missed the opportunity to interview this legendary sports icon, the warmth and kindness of that interaction continue to remain among my fondest memories.
In September 2017, while attending the Fifth Asian Literature Festival and Children’s Film Festival in Chandigarh, I hoped to meet him again. After some effort, I obtained his personal phone number through a senior journalist friend. When I called him, he kindly agreed to meet me the next morning at Sukhna Lake.
The next morning, while I was waiting, my phone rang.
“Are you journalist Dogra Ji?” a voice asked.
“Yes,” I replied.
“I am Chanderpal. Sir would like to speak with you.”
A few moments later, I heard a familiar voice on the phone:
“Dogra Ji, Milkha Singh this side. Sorry, I cannot meet you today. Some relatives and friends came home last night. Let us meet tomorrow at the same time and place.”
I was deeply impressed. Here was one of India’s greatest athletes personally calling to apologize for not being able to meet. His humility was remarkable.
Unfortunately, I had to travel to Chitkara University the next day for a media workshop, and our meeting could not happen. I informed him in advance, and he understood.
After that, we spoke occasionally on the phone. His memory was amazing. On his birthday, November 20, 2020, I called to wish him. He immediately recognized me and asked,
“Dogra Ji, when are we meeting?”
I replied, “Sir, once the lockdown ends or whenever I travel to Himachal Pradesh, I will certainly visit you.”
Sadly, fate had other plans. During the COVID-19 pandemic, both Milkha Singh Ji and his wife, Mrs. Nirmal Kaur, fell ill. First, we lost Nirmal Ji, and soon afterward, Milkha Singh Ji also passed away. It was difficult to believe that such a strong and inspiring personality could leave us so soon.
One regret will always remain with me—I met him twice and spoke with him several times, yet I never got the opportunity to conduct a full personal interview with him.
Whenever I think of him today, I can still hear those words:
“Dogra Ji, Milkha Singh this side.”
Those simple words remind me not only of a sporting legend but also of a humble, kind-hearted and unforgettable human being.
Milkha Singh’s journey from the hardships of
Partition to becoming one of India’s greatest athletes is a story of courage, determination, and hard work. His gold medals at the Asian Games and Commonwealth Games, his Olympic appearances, and the Padma Shri award are milestones in Indian sporting history.
But more than his medals, it is his character and spirit that continue to inspire millions.
On his death anniversary, I pay my heartfelt tribute to the Flying Sikh. His contribution to Indian sports and his message of perseverance will live on forever.
Sir, you may no longer be with us, but your legacy, your inspiration, and your voice will always remain in our hearts.
“Dogra Ji, Milkha Singh this side…”
May his noble soul rest in peace.
