Kumar Bahukhandi
In Short
State’s Biggest Sports Event to be Held on March 22 Under the Theme ‘Bastar Runs, the Nation Connects’
A Celebration of Fitness and Heritage—Major Preparations Underway to Place Bastar on the Global Tourism Map
Our Resolve is to Make Bastar a Premier Tourism and Sports Destination in the Country: CM Sai
Raipur: Taking a significant step towards promoting sports, tourism, and cultural heritage within the state, the Government of Chhattisgarh is set to organise the ‘Bastar Heritage Marathon 2026’ on Sunday, March 22 , 2026 .
This will be the largest running event ever held in the state, commencing at Jagdalpur’s historic Lalbagh Ground and concluding at the world-renowned Chitrakote Waterfalls. As they run along this route—brimming with natural beauty—participants will enjoy a unique experience of Bastar’s breathtaking landscapes and distinct cultural identity.
Describing the event as a matter of pride for Chhattisgarh, Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai stated that the Bastar Heritage Marathon is not merely a sporting competition, but a celebration of the state’s rich traditions, natural wealth, and public participation.
He noted that, with the message ‘Bastar Runs, the Nation Connects,’ this event will not only promote fitness but also firmly establish Bastar on both the national and international tourism maps.
The Chief Minister further added that the state government’s objective, through such events, is to provide opportunities to local youth, boost employment generation, and accelerate regional development.
The marathon features categories spanning 42 kilometers (Full Marathon), 21 kilometers (Half Marathon), 10 kilometers, and 5 kilometers (Fun Run), ensuring that individuals of every age group and fitness level can participate.
An attractive total prize purse of ₹25 lakh has been allocated for the participants. The registration fee has been set at a nominal ₹299; however, for participants hailing from the seven districts of the Bastar division, registration is entirely free of cost, thereby ensuring maximum local participation.
Comprehensive arrangements have been made along the marathon route, keeping the comfort and safety of the participants in mind. Refreshment Points (RPs) will be established at regular intervals throughout the entire route, providing access to energy drinks and water.
Furthermore, medical support, emergency services, and efficient route management have been ensured to provide participants with a safe and seamless experience. To make this event even more memorable, every participant will be awarded a finisher’s medal, an e-certificate, and professional running photographs.
Additionally, engaging activities such as Zumba sessions and live DJ performances will be organised to keep the participants’ spirits high and their energy levels up.
Based on the theme “Run for Nature, Run for Culture,” this marathon will serve as a powerful platform to showcase Bastar’s natural heritage and tribal culture to the entire nation. Appealing to athletes, fitness enthusiasts, and tourists from across the country to participate in this historic event,
Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai stated that this occasion offers not merely an opportunity to run, but also a chance to experience Bastar up close and immerse oneself in its rich heritage. Interested participants can register via the link https://www.bastarheritage.run/registration or by scanning the QR code provided on the official poster.
The Chief Minister remarked that this event is inspired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of “Fit India,” “Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat” (One India, Great India), and his commitment to boosting tourism within the country.
The Prime Minister has consistently emphasized the importance of bringing global recognition to India’s cultural diversity and local heritage. The Bastar Heritage Marathon represents an endeavor to carry this vision forward—a convergence where sports, culture, and nature unite. He further affirmed that the State Government remains steadfast in its commitment to developing Bastar into a premier tourism and sports destination within the country.
Such events will not only foster greater fitness awareness among the youth but also generate new opportunities for employment and self-employment at the local level. Artisans, artists, and small-scale businesses in Bastar will also derive direct benefits from this initiative.
Chief Minister Sai appealed to athletes, fitness enthusiasts, and tourists from across the country to participate in this historic event. He stated that he extends an invitation to youth and citizens from every corner of the nation to visit Bastar, experience its nature, culture, and vibrant energy, and become a part of this historic marathon.
