Chandigarh bids adieu to Milkha Singh

Tribune News Service

Chandigarh, June 19

Condolences poured in from people of all walks of life during Milkha Singh’s final journey today.

The funeral procession, taken out from his residence in Sector 8 to the Sector 25 cremation ground, witnessed thousands of fans saying the final goodbye to their hero. He was cremated with full state honours. Earlier, his mortal remains were kept at Sector 8.

“I met him in the 1970 Scotland Commonwealth Games. Both Milkha and Nirmal were there. He was happy to know that I represented Chandigarh at the national circuit. Our friendship started on a good note. He and Nirmal were Director Sports (Punjab) and I was coaching in Chandigarh,” said Wing Commander Satish Bhatia, former Olympian and national badminton champion.

Last visit of caddies

Caddies of Milkha couple and Jeev Milkha Singh also paid their last tributes to Milkha. Caddies Arun, Monty, Raju Pal and Gurwinder Singh, who are known to be close to Milkha family, were also present at his residence. “Sir (Milkha) used to treat us as his family members. They would never hesitate to ask for golf tips. He was an avid golfer and a very helpful person. Our association started way back in the early 1990s. I will cherish his memories,” said Monty. Gurwinder, popularly known as Ambarsariya, has his share of tales to tell. “He was an inspiration for all of us. There was never a day when he had not sat with us and motivated us to work hard in life. Pre-Covid pandemic, he was a regular for golf. May he find peace in almighty arms,” said Gurwinder.

A tribute by long runner

Chanan Singh Dhaliwal, a long runner from Phallewal (Ludhiana) had specially reached here to pay tributes to Milkha. He also ran for a few kilometres with Milkha’s procession. “He was an icon for all the athletes. I wanted to honour him in his style,” said Dhaliwal.

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