Preparations for Abujhmad Peace Half Marathon are in full swing, more than 5,000 participants will participate
Raipur, 19 February 2025
The Abujhmad Peace Half Marathon 2025 is being organised to celebrate peace, fitness, community spirit and the untouched beauty of Bastar. Preparations are in full swing for the marathon, which will see over 5,000 participants. Aimed at providing a platform to local talent, promoting physical fitness and highlighting the natural beauty of the region, the Abujhmad Peace Half Marathon 2025 will be held on March 2 in Narayanpur. With a large number of participants registering, the marathon has become not just a race but a symbol of hope, unity and change.
Abujhmad, which is famous for its natural beauty and rich culture, has long been under the wrath of Naxal activities. An attempt is being made to change this perception through this marathon, allowing people of all skill levels to participate in a spirit of unity, competition and mutual understanding. The marathon will include half marathon (21 km), 10 km and 5 km categories, providing an opportunity for athletes, first-time runners and local talent to participate. With state-of-the-art timing systems, pacers, medical assistance and hydration stations, the event will prove to be a memorable experience for all participants.
Objective of the marathon: Message of health, unity and peace
Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Dev Sai described the event as a symbol of hope and said that by bringing people together through the universal language of sports, we not only want to promote physical health but also give an important message of peace and unity. Abujhmad will no longer be known for Maoism, but for the potential and talent of its people.
Promo Marathon: Growing enthusiasm with successful events
Before the main event, the organizing committee held a 5 km promo marathon on January 5, in which Teeju Pujari, Laxman Poyam and Birsingh Salam emerged as winners in the men’s category, while Somrai Gota, Reena Uike and Bhumika Dewangan topped the women’s category. After this, a 10 km mini marathon was held in Narayanpur on January 19, in which more than 800 runners participated. In this, Purkeshwar Lal Deshmukh, Rassu Kores and Budhram Kumeti topped the men’s category, while Muskan Kushwaha, Bhumika Dewangan and Sombai Gota emerged as winners in the women’s category.
Special facilities for participants
Several arrangements have been made for the convenience of the participants. Parking, accommodation and food facilities will be provided. Aid stations will be arranged along the route, where drinking water, electrolyte drinks, snacks, fruits and first aid kits will be available. Recovery/resting tents will also be set up for the runners. Participants will receive real-time updates through a live tracking system and the route will be clearly marked with LED indicators. Availability of medical aid stations will be ensured throughout the event, ensuring the safety of the participants. Experienced pacers will guide the runners in each category, helping them maintain their pace and achieve their goals.
Some special events will also be held before the marathon. On February 28, there will be a Jadoo Bastar concert by ‘Band Dayara’. On March 1, there will be a grand drone show, as well as amazing stunts by the Abujhmad Mallakhamb team. Additionally, traditional dances, local art exhibitions and other events showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Bastar will also be held. Along with the importance of sports, this marathon will bring national recognition to the untouched beauty and potential of Abujhmad and will help in the development of the region.