Milkha Singh Funeral: Flying Sikh cremated with full state honours

Iconic sprinter Milkha Singh was cremated with full state honours in Chandigarh, marking the end of an era in which his pioneering accomplishments on the track galvanised a newly independent India. Milkha, who was 91, was bid a tearful adieu in the presence of his family members and several dignitaries, including sports minister Kiren Rijiju. 'The Flying Sikh', as he was fondly called, passed away on June 18 night due to COVID-19 related complications.

Iconic sprinter Milkha Singh was cremated with full state honours in Chandigarh, marking the end of an era in which his pioneering accomplishments on the track galvanised a newly-independent India. Credit: PTI Photo

Milkha, who was 91, was bid a tearful adieu in the presence of his family members and several dignitaries, including sports minister Kiren Rijiju. Credit: PTI Photo

Punjab Chief Minister Capt. Amarinder Singh pays tribute to legendary sprinter Milkha Singh, who passed away on Friday night due to post-COVID complications, in Chandigarh. Credit: PTI Photo

His son and ace golfer Jeev Milkha Singh lit the funeral pyre. Credit: PTI Photo

Jeev Milkha Singh is seen performing the last rites of his father Milkha Singh. Credit: PTI Photo

A police contingent reversed arms and sounded the last post in the sprinter's honour. Milkha was also given a gun salute. Credit: PTI Photo

Family members pay their last respects at the residence of legendary sprinter Milkha Singh in Chandigarh. Credit: PTI Photo

Earlier, the funeral procession started from Milkha's Sector 8 residence. His body was carried in a bedecked vehicle, with common people turning up along the short route to the Sector 25 cremation ground to pay their last respects to the legend. Credit: PTI Photo

Jeev Milkha Singh along with family members during the funeral. Credit: PTI Photo

Jeev Milkha Singh during cremation ceremony of his father, legendary sprinter Milkha Singh in Chandigarh. Credit: PTI Photo

Jeev Milkha Singh along with family members during the funeral. Credit: PTI Photo