Bengaluru, Jan 31 :The OpenText Bengaluru Walkathon, organised by Samarthanam Trust for the Disabled, was successfully held today, marking the 19th edition of one of India’s longest-running and most inclusive public movements. With OpenText continuing as the Title Sponsor for the second consecutive year, the Walkathon reaffirmed a shared commitment to inclusion, accessibility, and collective well-being, centred on the theme “Health for All.”
Over the years, the Bengaluru Walkathon has evolved into a powerful platform bringing together persons with disabilities, senior citizens, students, volunteers, corporates, institutions, NGOs, and community organisations, transforming participation into a visible act of solidarity and shared responsibility.
The Walkathon witnessed participation from over 10,000 people, with a significant representation of persons with disabilities, making it one of India’s most inclusive public movements. Held at Kitturu Rani Chennamma Stadium, the event saw the city come together to demonstrate that inclusion is strongest when it is visible, participatory, and collective.
The Walkathon was led by Dr. Mahantesh G. Kivadasannavar, Founder & Managing Trustee, Samarthanam Trust for the Disabled, along with Mr. Manoj Nagpal, Managing Director & Vice President Professional Services, OpenText. Their leadership underscored the power of sustained collaboration between the social and corporate sectors in driving long-term, meaningful impact.
The event was graced by Shri C.K. Ramamurthy, MLA, Jayanagar Assembly Constituency and Chairman, Bangalore South District who graced the event as the Chief Guest, and Sri N. Nagaraju, Former Ruling Party Leader of BBMP.
Senior corporate leaders who participated included Ms. Divvya Shetty, Solution Director – Consulting, Blue Yonder; Mr. Rajesh Ramesh, Senior Director Finance, CSC; Mr. Rajesh D.K., AGM, Nabtesco India Private Limited; Ms. Himanshi Jain, Senior People Partner, Hiver; Mr. Vinayak Naik, VP IT Group Executive, FIS; Mr. Punit Sheth, Senior Vice President, SmartStream; and Mr. Sairam Yadalla, Associate Vice President Software, Voya Global Services Pvt. Ltd.
The event also saw participation from Mr. Janak Bedi, Managing Director & Co-Founder, MyDream Global & MyDream TV, USA.
Leading corporates and institutions participated in large numbers, reflecting strong corporate support for inclusive social action. The Walkathon was further honoured by the presence of Ms. Hilary McGeachy, Consul General, Australian High Commission,
Adding a powerful and inspiring dimension to the event was the participation of the World Champions – Indian Women’s Team, 1st T20 World Cup, Cricket for the Blind (2025), symbolising resilience, excellence, and the transformative role of inclusive sports in nation-building.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Mahantesh G. Kivadasannavar said:
“The Walkathon is not about charity it is about visibility, dignity, and participation. When persons with disabilities walk alongside the larger community, society begins to move together. ‘Health for All’ is not a slogan; it is a responsibility to ensure that well-being, opportunity, and inclusion reach everyone.”
Mr. Manoj Nagpal, OpenText, said:
“The OpenText Bengaluru Walkathon demonstrates the impact of long-term partnerships built on shared values. Health, inclusion, and access are foundational to a strong society, and OpenText is proud to stand with Samarthanam in advancing these principles through sustained action.”
Adding vibrancy and cultural depth to the Walkathon, Team SUNADHA, the arts and culture vertical of Samarthanam Trust for the Disabled, enthralled participants with live performances by singers and musicians with disabilities. Their performances energised the walkers and reinforced the message that art, expression, and inclusion go hand in hand, making the Walkathon not just a public health movement but also a celebration of talent, resilience, and ability.
We look forward to the continued support of the media in amplifying the Walkathon’s message of inclusion, public health, and collective responsibility across platforms.
As the Walkathon moves steadily toward its 20th year, the OpenText Bengaluru Walkathon stands as a living legacy shaped by purpose, strengthened by partnerships, and driven by the vision of Health for All, inspiring communities to walk together toward a more inclusive future.