Bollywood celebs mourn the demise of Milkha Singh

Legendary athlete Milkha Singh, popularly known as The Flying Singh, passed away on Friday, June 18, after a month-long battle with Covid-19. He was 91. Just a couple of days back he was shifted out of the Covid intensive care unit at Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh. As soon as the news broke, celebrities took to Twitter and shared their condolences. Farhan Akhtar, who had played lead in Milkha Singh’s biopic, Bhaag Milkha Bhaag, posted a heart-felt note that read, “Dearest Milkha ji, a part of me is still refusing to accept that you are no more. Maybe it’s the stubborn side I inherited from you. The side that when it sets its mind on something, just never gives up. And the truth is that you will always be alive because you were more than a large-hearted, loving, warm, down-to-earth man. You represented an idea. You represented a dream. You represented (to use your own words) how hard work, honesty and determination can lift a person off his knees and get him to touch the sky. You have touched all our lives. For those who knew you as a father and a friend, it was a blessing. For those who didn’t, your story was a constant source of inspiration and a reminder of humility in success. I love you with all my heart.”

Lyricist and scriptwriter Prasoon Joshi, who had written Bhaag Milkha Bhaag, also expressed his grief on the passing away of the ace sprinter. In a statement, he said, “It was an honour to write Bhaag Milkha Bhaag which allowed me to explore Milkhaji’s life and learn a lot from it. Had just met him and his wife Nirmal ji a few months back in Delhi and at 91, he was still looking forward to life. He was an optimist whose positivity will always resonate with me. Milkha ji was an inspiration for not only the film I wrote but in life.”

Here are other stars who paid tributes on social media…

DivyaDutta

RIP #MilkhaSinghji! It’s an end of the era with you. It’s been an honour to have met you, known you and live a slice of your inspiring life. Shall always remember the chai session and the gupshup!

Amitabh Bachchan

T 3940 – In grief … Milkha Singh passes away … the pride of India …A great athlete …A greater human …Waheguru di Mehr…Prayers.

Shah Rukh Khan

The Flying Sikh may no longer be with us in person, but his presence will always be felt and his legacy will remain unmatched… An inspiration to me… an inspiration to millions.Rest in peace Milkha Singh sir.

Priyanka Chopra

Warm and welcoming, you made our first meeting so special. I have been inspired by your excellence, touched by your humility, influenced by your contribution to our country. Om Shanti #Milkhaji.Sending love and prayers to the family. #MilkhaSingh.

Akshay Kumar

Incredibly sad to hear about the demise of #MilkhaSinghji. The one character I forever regret not playing onscreen! May you have a golden run in heaven, Flying Sikh.Om shanti, Sir.

Sonu Sood

The story of your struggle and achievements will always inspire the world. #RIPMilkhaSinghji.

Sunny Deol

The nation will remember you & seek inspiration from your life forever. #MilkhaSingh #RIPMilkhaSingh.

Riteish Deshmukh

Shri #MilkhaSinghJi’s name was and will forever be synonymous with speed. He inspired generations to run and never give up. Extremely saddened to know about his demise.My deepest condolences to his family and loved ones. #LongLiveFlyingSikh

Richa Chadha

Rest in peace. Son of India, the Flying Sikh… you’re immortal sir. Thank you for showing the world what the human spirit was capable of …we shall always celebrate you #RIPMilkhaSinghJi