Copyright thehindu
The inaugural edition of the Mysuru Marathon conducted on Sunday by the Department of Posts, Karnataka Circle, evoked positive response from the public. There were 3,417 participants who took part in different categories of the run that included a full-fledged marathon, half marathon, 10K, 5K categories, and 3K category. The event was conduced in association with NEB Sports and Entertainment Ltd. and the State Department of Youth Empowerment and Sports. Mysuru MP Yaduveer Krishnadatta Chamaraja Wadiyar flagged of the event which saw participants from not only Karnataka but other States as well. Mr. Wadiyar, who also ran the 10K race and completed it in 1:16:45, urged the citizens to take part in such events in greater numbers to gain health benefits. Chief Post Master General of Karnataka Circle K. Prakash said Prime Minister Narendra Modi has laid emphasis on fitness and the Mysuru Marathon was part of the Fit India Movement. As part of the brand-building exercise, initiatives and services of India Post, were highlighted. The authorities said the event was held as part of World Post Day which was celebrated on October 9, 2025 and the objective was to inspire the new generation towards healthy and active living. Besides, it also served as a brand-building exercise for India Post which has averred that Mysuru Marathon will be an annual affair. The marathon route passed through the scenic and challenging terrain of Chamundi Hills and was a test of endurance for the marathon runners. Full marathon commenced from the Postal Training Centre, and the route covered the Deve Gowda Cirle, Manipal Hospital Circle, return to PTC from where the participants took the route to Karanji Lake, the road to Nandi atop Chamundi Hills, Tavarekatte, Uttanahalli and returned to PTC campus again which was the finish line. Reacting to the tremendous response for the event, the India Post authorities said there was sufficient publicity for the Mysuru Marathon and in the runup to Sunday’s event, the official logo and a picture postcard was also launched during August. In the men’s category of marathon C.S. Lakshmeesha came first with a finishing time of 3:10:09 followed by Akshay Sridhar (3:10:51) and S. Sathvik (3:15:16). In the women’s category, Bijoya Barman came first with a timing of 3:40:04, followed by H.K. Anuradha (4:26:28) and N.K. Harshitha (4:37:38). Chandrashekar Kakumanu, Post Master General, South Karnataka region, Saravana, General Manager, Centre for Excellence in Postal Technology, Sandesh Mahadevappa, Director, Postal Services, were among those present.
