Feb 23: The holy city of Ayodhya turned into a powerful confluence of devotion, discipline, and determination as the 4th Edition of ‘Run For Ram’ Marathon 2026 concluded successfully at Ram Katha Park. Thousands of participants gathered at dawn, not merely to compete, but to celebrate a movement rooted in faith, fitness, and collective spirit. The event was organised by Kreeda Bharati, an organisation formed under the auspices of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS). Set against the historic and spiritual landscape of Ayodhya, the ‘Run For Ram’ marathon draws symbolic inspiration from the ancient 14-Kosi Parikrama, reflecting endurance, focus, and inner strength long before the modern concept of marathons emerged. The marathon commenced from the iconic Lata Mangeshkar Chowk, Ayodhya, and culminated at Ram Katha Park, creating a spiritually uplifting route that connected heritage with athletic determination. Over 10,000 participants from across India and abroad took part in the event, making it one of the largest editions so far. This year marked a notable rise in women’s participation compared to previous editions, and witnessed performance of 60+ female runner, highlighting a significant step toward inclusivity.
Addressing the gathering, Shri Awanish Kumar Singh, State President, stated,
“The successful completion of the fourth edition of Run For Ram is a matter of immense pride. It is truly a treat to the eyes to witness such extraordinary participation and heartfelt response from people of all age groups. The energy, discipline, and devotion displayed today reflect the spirit of Ayodhya and the enduring values of Shri Ram.”
The marathon featured four professionally timed race categories supported by RFID technology and comprehensive on-ground facilities to ensure a smooth and well-managed experience. Participants competed in the 42 km Full Marathon and 21 km Half Marathon, both open to individuals aged 18 years and above, the 10 km race for participants aged 12 years and above, and the 3 km fun run that welcomed participants from all age groups. Winners across categories included Abhishek Soni (Male – 42 km); Prince Raj Yadav (Male – 21 km) and Soni Devi (Female – 21 km); along with Sandeep Pai (Male – 10 km) and Ankita (Female – 10 km). With a total prize pool of ₹15,00,000, cash prizes were awarded in varying amounts as per the set criteria, including ₹1,25,000; ₹1,00,000; ₹75,000; ₹55,000; ₹50,000; ₹35,000; ₹30,000; ₹25,000; ₹20,000; and ₹10,000. Among the top recognitions, Abhishek Soni, winner of the 42 km male category, received ₹1,25,000, while international runner Desye Endalew from Israel, who also competed in the 42 km male category, was awarded ₹1,25,000. Ms. Geeta Singh, Founder & Director, TYC Communication, and President, Stree Indian Sports Foundation, remarked, “It is heartening to see the remarkable rise in women’s participation this year, including senior women runners. Such platforms not only promote fitness but also strengthen confidence and representation. We are glad to have this opportunity to support and encourage more inclusive sporting events in the future.” The organisers expressed sincere gratitude to all supporting partners, including Government of Goa (Silver Partner), Government of Chhattisgarh and Nava Raipur Atal Nagar Development Authority (Bronze Partner), Amul (Refreshment Partner), PHD Chamber of Commerce & Industry (Industry Partner), NBCC India (Jersey Partner), Stree India Sports Foundation (Knowledge Partner), Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust (Spiritual Partner), Ayodhya Shodh Sansthan (Cultural Partner), Niswarth Kadam (Supporting Partner), JK Tyre (Associate Partner), Ayodhya Nagar Nigam and Dr. Ram Manohar Lohia Avadh University (Host City Partners), UP Tourism, IFFCO, and Sports University of Haryana (Sports University Associate Partner). With its successful completion and rising participation across genders and generations, ‘Run For Ram’ an outstanding initiative by Kreeda Bharati 2026 reaffirmed its position as a powerful cultural and fitness movement rooted in faith, unity, and national spirit.
Category-Wise Winners – Run For Ram Marathon 2026 42 km – Male (Indian Category)
1. Abhishek Soni – 02:24:17
2. Akshay Kumar – 02:24:31
3. Pankaj Singh – 02:42:26 42 km –
International Male Category
1. Desye Endalew (Ethopia) – 02:29:33
2. Daniel Kipkemboi Ronoh – 02:54:52
3. Amos Kiplagat – 03:16:47 21 km –
Male
1. Prince Raj Yadav – 01:04:52
2. Sahil Sagar – 01:05:17
3. Ravi Kumar Pal 21 km –
Female
1. Soni Devi – 01:19:10
2. Kavita – 01:21:23
3. Madhuri Yadav 10 km –
Male
1. Sandeep Pal – 00:30:12
2. Pankaj Yadav – 00:30:25
3. Islam Ali 10 km –
Female
1. Ankita – 00:36:45
2. Akanksha Singh – 00:38:07
3. Anjali