World Athletics Label Race reinforces Hyderabad’s position as one of India’s premier running destinations
Hyderabad, July 15: Hyderabad Runners Society, in partnership with NMDC Ltd., IDFC FIRST Bank and the Government of Telangana, today announced the 15th edition of the NMDC Hyderabad Marathon Powered by IDFC FIRST Bank, scheduled to be held on August 29 and 30, 2026.
Recognised as India’s second-largest marathon and a World Athletics Label Race, this landmark edition is expected to attract over 32,000 participants across the Full Marathon, Half Marathon, 10K and 5K categories, bringing together elite international athletes, India’s leading distance runners and thousands of fitness enthusiasts.
Over the last fifteen years, the NMDC Hyderabad Marathon has evolved into much more than a sporting event. It has become a movement that inspires healthier lifestyles, encourages community participation and promotes running as a preferred fitness activity.
The marathon continues to strengthen its global standing. In 2025, it became India’s first marathon to receive the prestigious World Athletics ABW Silver Standard, placing Hyderabad alongside a select group of internationally recognised sporting events committed to environmental responsibility. The 2026 edition has once again earned the World Athletics Label, reflecting its adherence to the highest international standards in race organisation, athlete services, course measurement, safety and event management.
This year’s edition will offer a total prize purse of ₹45 lakh, attracting some of the finest athletes from India and abroad while delivering a world-class experience for every participant.
The Inclusive Run, organised in association with the Adventures Beyond Barriers Foundation (ABBF), is a new initiative at the 15th NMDC Hyderabad Marathon that promotes inclusive participation in distance running. With over 300 participants with disabilities registered this year, the initiative reinforces the belief that running has no barriers and that everyone deserves an opportunity to experience the joy of sport.
NMDC Hyderabad Marathon is now officially SheRACESaccredited — recognising our commitment to safer spaces, equal opportunity, better support, and an inclusive race experience for women runners. Because every pace belongs here. Every story matters here. Every runner deserves to feel seen, supported, and celebrated.
The official Finisher’s Medal and Event T-shirt were unveiled by Shri Krishna Kumar Thakur, Director (Personnel), NMDC Ltd., and Shri Shreepad Shende, Chief Marketing Officer, IDFC FIRST Bank, in the presence of dignitaries, sponsors and partners.
This year’s medal is designed by Neil Foley Designs. It is deeply rooted in sustainability. The design draws inspiration from the timeless art of basket weaving—a powerful reminder that strong communities, just like great marathons, are woven together by many hands.
Even the colors of the lanyard tell a profound story:
● Blue for our skies and waters.
● Brown for the earth beneath our feet.
● Green for our forests.
● White for hope, balance, and a cleaner tomorrow.
It’s a reminder that every step we take should leave the planet a little better than we found it.
Nikhat Zareen said, “What makes this marathon truly special is its inclusivity. It welcomes people of all ages and backgrounds, bringing together a diverse community of runners. Beyond the race, it inspires participants to believe in themselves, trust their abilities, and discover their true potential. Every step on the course is a reminder that determination and self-belief can take you farther than you imagine.”
Shri Krishna Kumar Thakur, Director (Personnel), NMDC Limited said At NMDC, we believe nation building extends beyond mining to creating healthier, more inclusive and sustainable communities. We are proud to support the NMDC Hyderabad Marathon for the fifth consecutive year and to see it evolve into a platform that inspires fitness, community participation and social impact. The marathon’s values of health, inclusivity and sustainability closely align with NMDC’s philosophy, and its achievement of the World Athletics Silver Sustainability Award is a matter of pride for all of us. We congratulate Hyderabad Runners Society and look forward to continuing this journey of promoting wellness, environmental responsibility and positive change in society.
Shreepad Shende, Chief Marketing Officer, IDFC FIRST Bank said Every city hosts a marathon, but the NMDC Hyderabad Marathon stands apart for its unique course, inspiring journey, and the significance of its landmark 15th edition. Our association with this event goes far beyond sponsorship—it is a meaningful partnership built around stories of transformation, perseverance, and resilience that unfold with every participant. Running teaches the value of discipline, consistency, and long-term commitment—the very principles that also guide a successful financial journey. We are proud to be part of an event that not only promotes fitness and well-being but also inspires individuals to achieve their goals, one step at a time.
Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Rajesh Vetcha, Race Director, NMDC Hyderabad Marathon, said: “The NMDC Hyderabad Marathon has grown into one of India’s most respected running events because of the collective support of our runners, volunteers, partners and the city of Hyderabad. As we celebrate our 15th edition, we remain committed to delivering a world-class race experience while encouraging healthier lifestyles, community participation and social responsibility. Every runner who takes the start line becomes part of a larger movement that inspires positive change.”
The marathon continues to be one of India’s largest charity fundraising platforms. This year, 40 NGO partners representing education, healthcare, women empowerment, sustainability and animal welfare are participating in the initiative.
The charity platform has already raised over ₹2.03 crore towards its ₹4 crore fundraising goal, with contributions from corporates, communities and individual donors. The campaign will remain open until September 15, 2026.
The charity initiative associated with the marathon has delivered remarkable outcomes, demonstrating the power of collective giving. Arcesium emerged as the Highest Corporate Donor, contributing ₹30 lakh, while Blood Warriors Foundation became the Highest Fundraising NGO, raising an impressive ₹67.62 lakh. Divis Foundation for Gifted Children recorded the Highest Bib Sales among NGOs with 388 charity bibs sold. Emaan Chimote was recognized as the Highest Individual Fundraiser, raising ₹1.59 lakh for SAFA Society.
The initiative also saw the sale of 1,278 Corporate Charity Bibs and 938 Individual Charity Bibs, further strengthening the marathon’s commitment to creating meaningful social impact beyond race day
The NMDC Hyderabad Marathon continues to unite athletes, families, corporates, volunteers and communities around a common vision of making Hyderabad the Health Capital of India.
Hyderabad Runners Society acknowledged the continued support of the Government of Telangana, Hyderabad City Police, NMDC Ltd., IDFC FIRST Bank, sponsors, volunteers and the running community in making the marathon one of India’s most respected sporting events.
The Event Highlights of the 15th NMDC Hyderabad Marathon Powered by IDFC FIRST Bank underscore its stature as one of India’s premier distance running events. Scheduled to be held on August 29–30, 2026, in Hyderabad, the marathon is expected to attract over 32,000 participants across four race categories—Full Marathon, Half Marathon, 10K, and 5K. Recognized as a World Athletics Label Race and India’s first marathon to receive the prestigious World Athletics Silver Sustainability Award, the event combines sporting excellence with environmental responsibility. With a total prize purse of ₹45 lakh and a charity fundraising goal of ₹3 crore, the marathon continues to champion both athletic achievement and social impact. The event schedule includes the Marathon Expo at HITEX Exhibition Centre on August 28 and 29, the 5K Run and Inclusive Run on August 29, followed by the flagship races on August 30—the Full Marathon commencing at 4:30 AM from People’s Plaza, the Half Marathon at 5:30 AM from People’s Plaza, and the 10K Run at 7:00 AM from HITEX.
The marathon route will pass several iconic landmarks including Hussain Sagar, Raj Bhavan Road, KBR Park, Jubilee Hills Road No. 45, Durgam Cheruvu Cable Bridge, Biodiversity Junction and the University of Hyderabad before culminating at Gachibowli Stadium.