Sports

Over 15,000 participants to run the 11th Edition Of JBG Kolkata Marathon 2026

Eastern India's Only World Athletics Bronze Labelled Full Marathon Scheduled
For 29th November, 2026

 Star-studded Lineup Of Ambassadors And
Icons Including Milind Soman, Gurindervir Singh, Saiyami Kher, Sumit Antil,
Kartik Karkera, Anju Bobby George And Ankita Konwar Will Be A Part Of This
Edition

Kolkata, 9th August, 2026: In a magnificent celebration of athletics and
citywide unity, Sportiz and Jai Balaji Group (JBG) officially launched the 11th
Edition of the JBG Kolkata Marathon 2026. Under the evocative slogan 'Cholo
Dourai' (Let's Run), the landmark marathon will take place on 29th November
2026, bringing together over 15,000+ runners from across the nation and around
the globe.

Marking a historic leap for distance running in Eastern India, this year's
edition introduces the Full Marathon (42.2 Km), officially being acknowledged
as the only World Athletics Bronze Labelled Full Marathon in Eastern India. To
ensure an inclusive celebration for every running enthusiast, the event will
feature the Full Marathon 42.2 kms | Half Marathon 21.1 kms | 10 Kms 15 Kms |
Cosplay (costume run) and a dedicated Special Heroes Category. A series of
engaging pre-event initiatives will be rolled out across the city leading up to
the race day.

The launch event was graced by distinguished sports personalities, dignitaries
and celebrities who were officially introduced as the faces of the 11th Edition
of JBG Kolkata Marathon 2026. This year

Mr Sumit Antil, the Paralympic, World & Asian Champion in Men's Javelin
Throw is the Face of the Special Heroes category

Ms Saiyami Kher, Bollywood Actress, Marathon Runner & Triathlete will be
the Star Guest Runner.

"The 11th Edition of the JBG Kolkata Marathon represents a defining
milestone for sport and community health in Eastern India. Securing the World
Athletics Bronze Label certification for the race elevates Kolkata onto the
global marathon map. With over 15,000 runners expected to participate, we are
thrilled to bring together international athletes, fitness enthusiasts and
inspiring icons under one umbrella," said Mr Gaurav Jajodia,Director, Jai
Balaji Group, the principal sponsor of the marathon.

"Bringing Eastern India's first World Athletics Bronze Labelled Full
Marathon to the city has been a passion project for us at Sportiz. From race
operations, timing precision and route hydration to medical safety and runner
support across all distance categories, our focus is on delivering a
world-class marathon experience. Kolkata has  has unmatched heart and energy, and we are
excited to see thousands of runners gather under the banner 'Cholo
Dourai," said Mr Nishant Maheshwari, CEO & Founder, Sportiz and Race
Director, JBG Kolkata Marathon. "It is an honour to be associated with an
event that celebrates endurance, inclusivity, and the sheer joy of running.
From empowering 50 women pacers to championing para-athletes in the Special
Heroes category, the JBG Kolkata Marathon 2026 sets a benchmark for community
engagement. This will be my second year at the Marathon and I am really looking
forward to hit the track again," said Ms Saiyami Kher, Bollywood Actress,Marathon
Runner & Triathlete.

Adding to the excitement of the JBG Kolkata Marathon is Cholo Dourai, the
official event anthem that captures the true spirit of the marathon and the
city of Kolkata. More than just a song, Cholo Dourai is a heartfelt celebration
of the city's vibrant culture, its resilient people, and its ever-growing
running community. The music video beautifully showcases Kolkata's iconic
landmarks while bringing together running clubs, fitness enthusiasts, and
passionate athletes, reflecting the energy, camaraderie and determination that
define the city's running movement. Through its inspiring message, the anthem
encourages people to embrace a healthier lifestyle, experience the joy of
fitness and take the first step towards becoming stronger, happier and healthier.
It is a powerful reminder that every run is a step towards personal growth and
a better future. Cholo Dourai is more than a call to run, it is a call to run
for our dreams, our health, and a brighter tomorrow. It embodies the spirit of
the JBG Kolkata Marathon and reinforces the message: This is our city. This is
our movement. This is our run. Cholo Dourai sung by Surjo Bhattacharjee, with
lyrics and music by Kaustav Banerjee, the anthem has been produced by Sportiz
and Jai Balaji Group, reinforcing the marathon's message of building a
healthier and more active Kolkata.

Title sponsored by Jai Balaji Group, promoted by Sportiz, the event is held
under the aegis of Athletics Federation of India. The route course is measure
and certified by the World Athletics & AIMS and supports the national Fit
India campaign. JBG Kolkata Marathon 2026 is backed by Strength Partner - JBG
HEXA TMT, Apparel Partner - T10 Sports, Energy Drink Partner Fast & Up,
Pain Relief Partner - Zandu Fast Relief, Entertainment Partner - 98.3 Radio
Mirchi, Philanthropy Partner - India Cares Foundation and Online Media Partner
- RevSportz.

With registrations now open following the official announcement, Kolkata
prepares to gather from every lane and heart to celebrate every dream and stride
as the city runs as one on 29th November, 2026.

About JBG Kolkata Marathon

The JBG Kolkata Marathon is Eastern India's premier distance running event,
promoted by Sportiz and title- sponsored by Jai Balaji Group. Over eleven
successful editions, the marathon has championed health, fitness, community
spirit, and inclusivity, growing into a globally recognized athletic platform
certified by World Athletics, Athletics Federation of India, and AIMS.