Over 9,800 Runners Take Part in Landmark Event from Jagdalpur to Chitrakote; Leaders Hail Marathon as Symbol of Peace, Development and Rising Aspirations
TFP Bureau, Raipur, March 22, 2026: The scenic and culturally rich region of Bastar scripted a new chapter in its journey of transformation as the ‘Bastar Heritage Marathon 2026’ witnessed an overwhelming participation of over 9,800 runners, marking a record turnout and placing the region firmly on the national sporting map.
Held across picturesque routes stretching from Lalbagh Ground in Jagdalpur to the iconic Chitrakote Waterfalls—often referred to as the ‘Niagara of India’—the marathon was not just a sporting event but a celebration of Bastar’s evolving identity, reflecting peace, development, and renewed public confidence.
The event concluded with a grand समारोह where Forest Minister Shri Kedar Kashyap congratulated the winners and participants, describing the marathon as a milestone in the state government’s efforts to build a prosperous and developed Bastar. He remarked that a region once affected by decades of unrest is now rapidly emerging as a hub of peace and opportunity, with youth actively participating in sports and excelling in competitive examinations.
Highlighting the broader significance of the event, Shri Kashyap noted that the marathon symbolises the success of various rehabilitation and development initiatives, including policies like ‘Poona Margem,’ which aim to bring positive change to the region. He also commended the district administration for successfully organising an event of such scale and expressed optimism about hosting similar national and international-level events in the future.
The marathon featured multiple categories to ensure inclusivity and wide participation. The flagship 42-kilometre full marathon began at Lalbagh Ground and culminated at the breathtaking Chitrakote Waterfalls. The 21-kilometre half marathon extended up to Potanar, the 10-kilometre race reached Kumhrawand, and the 5-kilometre ‘fun run’ was conducted between Lalbagh and Dalpat Sagar Ranighat. Participants included professional athletes, local youth, fitness enthusiasts, and citizens across age groups, reflecting a vibrant and inclusive sporting spirit.
To further encourage participation, the committee announced an attractive prize pool of ₹25 lakh. A special ‘Bastar Category’ was introduced to promote local talent, with free registration for residents of the district, enabling them to compete alongside athletes from across India and abroad.
One of the most striking aspects of the marathon was the enthusiastic involvement of members of the Manjhi-Chalki community, underscoring the event’s inclusive nature and its success in bringing together diverse sections of society. The large-scale participation from rural and tribal areas added a unique cultural dimension to the marathon.
Speaking on the occasion, MLA Shri Kiran Singh Deo said that following the successful आयोजन of events like the Abujhmad Half Marathon, the Bastar Heritage Marathon represents a new era of peace, progress, and opportunity in the region. He emphasized that such initiatives would further accelerate development and strengthen Bastar’s identity as a destination for sports and tourism.
Bastar Member of Parliament Shri Mahesh Kashyap and MLA Shri Vinayak Goyal also addressed the gathering, congratulating the participants and highlighting the importance of such events in inspiring youth and promoting regional pride.
Senior officials and public representatives, including District Panchayat President Smt. Vedvati Kashyap, Mayor Shri Sanjay Pandey, and other dignitaries, were present at the closing ceremony, alongside administrative officers and a large number of spectators.
The ‘Bastar Heritage Marathon 2026’ not only celebrated athletic excellence but also projected a powerful narrative of transformation—presenting Bastar as a land of cultural richness, natural beauty, and emerging opportunities, ready to take its place on the global stage.
