THEBUSINESSBYTES BUREAU

BHUBANESWAR, MARCH 15, 2026

The spirit of fitness and environmental responsibility came alive in the capital city as the SBI Green Marathon Season 6 reached Bhubaneswar, drawing thousands of participants in a powerful display of community spirit and sustainability. After inspiring green movements across cities including Lucknow, Chandigarh, Bhopal, Visakhapatnam, Bengaluru, Guwahati, Kolkata, Ahmedabad, Thiruvananthapuram, Jaipur, Patna, Mumbai, Chennai and Hyderabad, the nationwide marathon continued its journey with an energetic edition in the temple city.

On a refreshing Sunday morning, the SOA University Cricket Ground transformed into a vibrant hub of fitness, community participation and environmental awareness. Surrounded by the youthful enthusiasm of students and the city’s rapidly growing running culture, the Bhubaneswar edition embodied the marathon’s mission — “Run for a Greener India.”

Known for its rich cultural heritage, expanding urban landscape and increasing emphasis on healthy living, Bhubaneswar proved to be an ideal setting for this sustainability-driven running movement. The event brought together more than 6,300 enthusiastic participants, including professional runners, students, families, corporate teams, fitness groups and defence personnel, all united by a shared purpose — celebrating health, endurance and environmental responsibility. Each stride taken on the course symbolized the city’s commitment toward a healthier lifestyle and a greener future.

The marathon was ceremoniously flagged off by esteemed dignitaries A D Ratna Teja, Chief General Manager; Vandana Aggarwal, General Manager NW 1; Kaushal Kishor Singh, General Manager NW II; and Samden Dorji Lama, DGM & Circle Development Officer. Their presence reinforced the bank’s continued commitment to sustainability, community well-being and nation-building through impactful initiatives that encourage environmental responsibility.

Staying true to its eco-first philosophy, the SBI Green Marathon delivered a thoughtfully curated and environmentally responsible race experience. Organic T-shirts, plantable BIBs and reusable cloth goodie bags promoted sustainable practices while significantly reducing single-use waste. Dedicated waste management systems were also put in place to ensure responsible segregation and disposal, further reinforcing the marathon’s strong environmental commitment.

Adding energy and excitement to the morning were the lively hosts RJ Madhu and RJ Sunny, whose engaging interactions, music and motivational energy kept runners enthusiastic and the crowd entertained throughout the event.

The marathon featured 5K, 10K and Half Marathon categories, with AIMS-certified routes ensuring global-standard course accuracy, safety and a smooth racing experience for runners of all levels. The scenic route around the SOA University campus offered participants an energizing and refreshing course, blending endurance with nature and community spirit.

With every kilometre completed, Bhubaneswar reinforced the message that collective action can drive meaningful environmental change. From the energetic flag-off to the eco-conscious race arrangements and celebratory finish-line moments, the city proudly carried forward the mission of the SBI Green Marathon’s 17-city journey.

As SBI Green Marathon Season 6 continues to inspire communities across the country, Bhubaneswar stands proud — proving that when people run together with purpose, every step brings India closer to a healthier, greener and more sustainable future.