Dr Vipul Lunawat
Founder Director- Institute of Sports Science and Technology (ISST)
Marathon culture in India has not emerged by chance—it is the outcome of sustained ecosystem building led by sports associations, federations, event organizers, institutional stakeholders, and increasingly, the corporate sector working in alignment. At the grassroots level, sports bodies play a critical role in introducing running as a lifelong habit rather than merely a competitive pursuit—through school programs, community runs, coach education, and accessible local events. This early exposure builds both participation and trust in structured sport.
Post-Covid, India witnessed a renewed focus on health, mental resilience, and preventive fitness. This shift led to a sharp rise in recreational running and the emergence of multiple marathon and endurance events across cities. Sports bodies responded by strengthening governance frameworks—standardized race certifications, athlete safety protocols, age-group classifications, and transparent qualification systems—ensuring that rapid growth did not compromise credibility or athlete welfare.
Corporates have also become key ecosystem enablers. Through CSR-led fitness initiatives, sponsorships, and employee wellness programs, leading Indian companies have supported mass participation events, destination marathons, and endurance formats such as triathlons. Their involvement has added scale, professionalism, and long-term sustainability to the marathon movement.
At the elite end, global podium finishes are rarely individual achievements alone. They reflect years of governance, funding clarity, performance monitoring, sports science integration, and international exposure facilitated by strong sports bodies. For India to sustain its marathon momentum, associations must continue evolving—from event facilitators to true ecosystem architects—where governance, science, corporate support, and community aspiration move together to create a lasting national movement
Abhilash Matam
Multi Property Hotel Manager, Courtyard by Marriott Kochi, Port Muziris Kochi, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel
India’s marathon culture has evolved from a niche community of enthusiasts to a nationwide movement, and sports associations have played a pivotal role in this transformation. By establishing standardized race protocols, safety frameworks, and athlete development pathways, sports bodies have helped build credibility and trust in long-distance running across the country. Grassroots initiatives such as school-level running programs, community marathons, and regional race circuits have encouraged participation from diverse age groups and socio-economic backgrounds, fostering a strong foundation for endurance sports.
At the elite level, federations and associations have strengthened talent identification, coaching education, and international exposure, enabling Indian athletes to compete on global platforms. Partnerships with government agencies, private sponsors, and wellness-focused organizations have further amplified awareness around fitness, mental resilience, and healthy lifestyles. Today, marathons in India are not just sporting events but cultural phenomena that bring together communities, promote tourism, and inspire millions to embrace endurance as a way of life.
As India continues its journey toward becoming a global sports destination, sustained collaboration between sports bodies, brands, and communities will be key to nurturing future champions and strengthening the country’s marathon ecosystem.
