The iconic Mumbai Marathon is just around the corner, and the city's spirit is already racing. With the event date of January 18 circled on every runner's calendar, Mumbai's diverse community of athletes is deep into its final preparations, transforming the early morning hours into a symphony of disciplined footsteps and shared ambition.
Global Dreams on the Marine Drive Promenade
This past Sunday at dawn, the scenic NCPA promenade at Marine Drive served as a unifying track. It was a melting pot of seasoned marathoners, enthusiastic amateurs, first-time participants, dedicated trainers, and close-knit running clubs. Among them were faces that had traveled great distances. Cathy Campbell, a History of Science student at Harvard University, was experiencing her first-ever race in Mumbai. "I'm really excited to be here. I loved this prep run today because it was along the Arabian Sea," she shared.
Running beside her was fellow Harvard fourth-year student, Mohan Hathi, who had participated the previous year. His enjoyment was so profound that he convinced Cathy to join him this time, smiling as the sea breeze offered respite from the morning humidity.
Discipline, Consistency, and the Runner's High
For many, running transcends physical exercise. Flight Lieutenant Elvis N Pranil from Parel, with approximately 60 marathons under his belt, views it as foundational. "If I don't do my daily morning run, I'm not productive at the office," he stated, adding that his runs provide crucial mental space to "manifest a better life."
The gathering was also strengthened by the presence of experienced runners from Ladakh, who emphasized core principles. Tenzin Dolkar, the open category 21 km winner from last year, stressed that "consistency and focus on diet are the most important things." Tashi Ladol, 24, who secured third place in the 21 km category in 2025, affirmed that discipline is non-negotiable, training rigorously for two hours every single day.
More Than a Race: Community and Lifelong Passion
The marathon spirit knows no age. Ashok Maru, a 64-year-old garment exporter from Carmichael Road and an amateur runner since 2013, embodies the enduring love for the sport. While he no longer runs the full 42 km, the habit of early mornings remains ingrained.
For corporate manager Jaya Kurup, a decade-long runner, motivation isn't about medals. Having run the Mumbai Marathon 21 km every year since 2017, she finds drive in her love for running outdoors and the community she trains with. "The group I train with is my biggest source of motivation," she revealed.
Behind every runner is often a supportive network. Trainer Deepak Oberoi plans his group's sessions with empathy, considering the support he would need himself. Another trainer, Priyanca Walanju, highlighted that preparation is holistic. "Emotional support is extremely important," she said, describing community programs that run for 8 to 12 weeks. This Sunday's session, where runners covered 18 to 36 km, was their longest prep run before the main event.
As the countdown continues, Mumbai's streets and promenades will keep echoing with the determined strides of thousands, all running toward their personal finish lines on January 18.
