Hyderabad, August 28: NMDC Hyderabad Marathon 2026 gets a powerful human story this year. 184 young tribal runners from Chhattisgarh will compete in the 15th edition of the event. The marathon takes place on August 29 and 30, 2026, in Hyderabad.
Furthermore, around 32,000 runners from across India will participate this weekend.
According to NMDC, the company is the title sponsor of the marathon. It selected 184 runners from remote villages across Bastar, Bailadila, Sukma, Dantewada, Bijapur, and Jagdalpur.
Moreover, for many of them, this is their first major city marathon. NMDC provided running shoes, kits, training, accommodation, and transportation to the entire contingent.
Additionally, NMDC organised the Freedom Run 2026 at its operational locations to identify these runners.
The Hyderabad Runners Society partnered for the initiative. More than 2,000 runners participated across three Freedom Run locations.
Furthermore, the runs took place at Donnimalai in Karnataka with 700 runners, Bacheli in Chhattisgarh with 900 runners, and Kirandul in Chhattisgarh with 450 runners.
NMDC Hyderabad Marathon 2026 Brings 184 Bastar Tribal Runners to City Streets This Weekend
Moreover, training for the selected tribal runners began on August 17. The group includes six women runners. Most participants compete in the 10-km category.
Meanwhile, a few experienced runners take on the 21.1-km Half Marathon and the 42.2-km Full Marathon.
Furthermore, many of these runners have grown up running on village roads and rugged terrain.
Several have traditionally run barefoot. Consequently, competing in a professionally organised city marathon is a significant milestone for them. With sustained coaching and exposure, some could pursue athletics professionally.
Additionally, the NMDC Hyderabad Marathon 2026 gives these young tribal runners a platform to compete alongside participants from across the country. As a result, the event connects people from diverse backgrounds through sport.
The journey of 184 runners from Bastar villages to Hyderabad’s marathon streets adds a powerful dimension to this year’s event.
Now you can get the latest stories from Indtoday on Telegram every day. Click the link to subscribe. Click to follow Indtoday’s Facebook page, Twitter, and Instagram. For all the latest Hyderabad News updates and Follow us on GoogleNews
