Marathon: How Mumbaiites plan to run for a cause

While some are first-time runners, others are running to break their previous marathon records

With the 15th edition of the Mumbai marathon just days away, Mumbaiites are gearing up to run.

While some are first-time runners, others are running to break their previous marathon records. (Hindustan Times)

While some are first-time runners, others are running to break their previous marathon records. Manan Shah, 27, a resident of Mahim, has been practising for the marathon for the past five months. This year, he will be running the marathon after three years.

“On weekdays, I run in a nearby park because there is heavy traffic on the roads. On weekends, I stretch it by running from my house in Mahim to Worli sea face and a back,” he said, adding, “The spirit of Mumbai on the day of the marathon brings such positive energy that one manages to accomplish the distance one has set sights on.”

For Shivani Sangani, 38, a resident of Marine Drive, this is going to be the first time running the marathon. She was been practising all of last year with a professional training group. “It is a mixture of excitement and nerves for me. It is a both physical and mental test for me. If I finish it, I know I would have pushed myself out of my comfort zone,” she said.

Many people are also running for social causes, including the welfare of street dogs to raising funds for patients and hospitals.

Isha Gulati, along with her sisters Malini and Saanya, are raising funds for children suffering thalassemia. They have so far raised Rs11.5 lakh for Think Foundation. The group said their association with the cause comes out of a “personal experience”. “Having lost two family members to thalassemia major, we have personally experienced the extensive medical care and financial resources that this illness requires,” Gulati said.

Last year, 259 NGOs collected Rs33.4 crore for different causes, whereas this year 259 NGOs collected Rs24.5 crore for causes such as child sexual abuse, thalassemia, sanitation needs for women and disability, among others.