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Tata Mumbai Marathon Returns on 19 January for twentieth edition
MUMBAI: The Tata Mumbai Marathon, a hallmark in the global running community, is set to celebrate its twentieth edition this Sunday 19 January. First held in 2004, this World Athletics Gold Label Road Race has blossomed into a prestigious event, serving as a launchpad for numerous athletes’ careers.
In its storied history, the marathon has played a crucial role in helping athletes qualify for prestigious international events, including the World Championships and Olympic Games. Notably, South African Hendrik Ramaala, the inaugural winner in 2004, went on to capture the New York Marathon later that year, underscoring the event’s significance.
This year, the race will feature last year’s champions from Ethiopia, Lemi Berhanu and Aberash Minsewo, both vying to defend their titles. With Berhanu aiming for an unprecedented third consecutive win, he is poised to make history at the Tata Mumbai Marathon.
“My preparation for the Mumbai Marathon has been excellent, especially after Beijing,” Berhanu stated in a recent press conference. “I have experience with this course and believe my focus and guidance from my coach will be key to my success.”
Joining Berhanu in the men’s elite category is Bazezew Asmare, who recently overcame a minor injury. “I’m fully fit and prepared for Sunday. A good result will propel my career forward, and I am eager to represent Ethiopia on the world stage,” Asmare said.
Also in the mix is Kenyan Philemon Rono, a three-time Mumbai winner, who expressed confidence in a comeback following a challenging previous season. “I’ve prepared meticulously for this race despite running a marathon just six weeks ago. Winning is my primary focus this Sunday to pave the way for representing Kenya in the World Championships,” Rono remarked.
The elite women’s field features Minsewo, who is looking to build on her inaugural marathon victory from last year. “I feel much more prepared this time around and I’m eager to showcase my skills on this familiar course,” Minsewo shared confidently.
Ethiopian runner Shitaye Eshete, who has transitioned from track events to road marathons, reflected on her journey: “Marathons provide more opportunities for success, but transitioning has been a learning experience that requires high mileage and consistent training,” she explained.
Shuko Genemo, another contender, echoed similar sentiments about the importance of preparation. “I’ve trained rigorously and understand the Mumbai course well. I believe hard work will lead to success,” Genemo noted.
The race, with a prize purse of $389,524, will reward the top three finishers in both the men’s and women’s categories, with prizes of $50,000, $25,000, and $15,000. Additional bonuses are available for athletes who break existing event records, which are currently held by Ethiopian runners Lemi Berhanu (2:07:32) and Anchialem Haymanot (2:24:15) since 2023.
As anticipation builds for this landmark edition of the Tata Mumbai Marathon, runners, organiSers, and fans alike look forward to a day of world-class competition, rich history, and the spirit of athletics celebrated in the bustling heart of Mumbai.
NEW DELHI: Hamdard Laboratories gathered a cross-section of India’s achievers in New Delhi on Friday, handing out the Hakeem Abdul Hameed Excellence Awards to figures who have left their mark across healthcare, education, sport, public service and the arts.
The ceremony, attended by minister of state for defence Sanjay Seth and senior officials from the ministry of Ayush, celebrated individuals whose work blends professional success with a sense of public purpose. It was as much a roll call of achievement as it was a reminder that influence is not measured only in profits or podiums, but in people reached and lives improved.
Among the headline awardees was Alakh Pandey, founder and chief executive of PhysicsWallah, recognised for turning affordable digital learning into a mass movement. On the sporting front, Arjuna Awardee and kabaddi player Sakshi Puniya was honoured for her contribution to the game and for pushing women’s participation onto bigger stages.
The cultural spotlight fell on veteran lyricist and poet Santosh Anand, whose songs have echoed across generations of Hindi cinema. At 97, Anand accepted the honour with characteristic humility, reflecting on a life shaped by perseverance and hope.
Healthcare honours spanned both modern and traditional systems. Manoj N. Nesari was recognised for strengthening Ayurveda’s place in national and global health frameworks. Padma shri Mohammed Abdul Waheed was honoured for his research-backed work in Unani medicine, while padma shri Mohsin Wali received recognition for his long-standing contribution to patient-centred care.
Education and social development also featured prominently. Padma shri Zahir Ishaq Kazi was honoured for decades of work in education, while former Meghalaya superintendent of Police T. C. Chacko was recognised for public service. Goonj founder Anshu Gupta received an award for his dignity-centred rural development initiatives, and the Hunar Shakti Foundation was honoured for empowering women and young girls through skill development.
The Lifetime Achievement Award went to former IAS officer Shailaja Chandra for her long career in public healthcare and governance, particularly in the traditional systems under Ayush.
Speaking at the event, Hamdard chairman Abdul Majeed said the awards were a tribute to those who combine excellence with empathy. “These awardees reflect Hakeem Sahib’s belief that healthcare, education and public service must ultimately serve humanity,” he said.
Minister Seth struck a forward-looking note, saying India’s young population gives the country a unique opportunity to become a global destination for learning, health and wellness by 2047.
The ceremony also featured the trailer launch of Unani Ki Kahaani, an upcoming documentary starring actor Jim Sarbh, set to premiere on Discovery on 11 February.
Instituted in memory of Unani scholar and educationist Hakeem Abdul Hameed, the awards have grown into a national platform that celebrates those building a more inclusive and resilient India. For one evening at least, the spotlight was not just on success, but on service with substance.
