CM backs Odisha’s coastal running vision
In Short
The initiative reflected the State’s efforts to encourage wider public participation in running and to establish Odisha as a destination for major sporting events.
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CM backs Odisha’s coastal running vision
Bhubaneswar: The Department of Tourism, government of Odisha, outlined its vision for the upcoming Puri Coastal Marathon 2026 in the presence of Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi and Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida. The event highlighted Odisha’s growing focus on sports, fitness, tourism and community participation ahead of the marathon, scheduled to take place in Puri on December 13.
The Puri Coastal Marathon, India’s only marathon combining sand and road running, is envisioned as a major sporting and tourism experience that will bring runners from across the country and beyond to Puri, showcasing Odisha’s spectacular coastline, rich cultural heritage, spiritual significance and hospitality. With a total prize money of Rs 1 crore, the marathon aims to create a platform where sports and tourism come together, encouraging people to embrace healthier lifestyles while experiencing the natural and cultural beauty of the State.
The event follows the statewide Promo Run held on World Tourism Day on September 27, which brought together participants from across Odisha to promote fitness and build awareness of the marathon.
The initiative reflected the State’s efforts to encourage wider public participation in running and to establish Odisha as a destination for major sporting events.
With the unveiling of the marathon’s visual identity, the recognition of national sporting achievers and the participation of prominent dignitaries, the event marked an important milestone in the build-up to the marathon.
Majhi said, “Odisha has always believed in the power of sports to inspire, unite and transform lives. Through initiatives such as the Puri Coastal Marathon, we are taking our commitment to fitness, healthy living and sporting excellence to a wider platform. We want Odisha to emerge as a leading destination for sports alongside its rich tourism and cultural identity.”
A key highlight of the event was the presence of Padma Bhushan and PGTI chief Kapil Dev, captain of India’s first ODI World Cup-winning team. His participation underscored the role of sporting icons in inspiring the next generation and nurturing a culture of fitness and sporting excellence.
“I want to thank the Odisha government for their support in hockey. I want to thank especially the initiative of marathon. Marathon is very important. Running is important for a sports person. I am sure in the future, apart from tourism, Odisha will be known for sports,” Kapil Dev said.
