Who wrote the book, "The race of My Life"?
VerifiedAnswer: Milkha Singh
Explanation:
"The Race of My Life" is an inspiring autobiography written by Milkha Singh, one of India's most celebrated athletes. The book was co-authored with his daughter Sonia Sanwalka and was first published in 2013. This remarkable memoir takes readers through the extraordinary journey of a man who rose from the ashes of partition to become India's most famous sprinter.
Milkha Singh, popularly known as the "Flying Sikh," was born in 1929 in Govindpura, which is now in Pakistan. His life story is nothing short of extraordinary - from witnessing the horrors of partition as a young boy to becoming the first Indian athlete to win an individual athletics gold medal at the Commonwealth Games. The autobiography candidly describes his struggles, determination, and the relentless pursuit of excellence that made him a legend in Indian sports.
The book covers various phases of his life, including his childhood trauma during partition, his early days of struggle, his entry into athletics, and his rise to international fame. Milkha Singh writes about his most memorable races, including the 1958 Commonwealth Games in Cardiff where he won gold in the 440-yard race, and the heartbreaking fourth-place finish at the 1960 Rome Olympics where he missed a bronze medal by a whisker.
What makes this autobiography particularly engaging is Milkha Singh's honest and straightforward narrative style. He doesn't shy away from discussing his failures, fears, and the personal demons he had to overcome. The book also provides insights into the state of Indian athletics during the 1950s and 1960s, the lack of proper facilities, and how athletes had to struggle against all odds to represent the country on international platforms.
The autobiography gained significant popularity and served as the foundation for the acclaimed Bollywood film "Bhaag Milkha Bhaag" released in 2013, starring Farhan Akhtar. The book not only chronicles his athletic achievements but also serves as a testament to the human spirit's ability to overcome adversity and achieve greatness through sheer determination and hard work.
