The Tata Steel World 25K Kolkata, a World Athletics Gold Label 25K, is seeing an unprecedented surge in registrations, which is indicative of Kolkata’s passionate acceptance of running as one of India’s top sporting events. The celebration continues to underline the city’s attitude of inclusivity, empowerment, and harmony.

An intense exhibition match, Bhaichung’s 10, marked the beginning of the countdown to this year’s tournament. Nine fortunate registered competitors from the Ananda Run category joined football legend Ratna Bhaichung Bhutia for a thrilling five-a-side match. TSW 25k Ratna Srabanti Chatterjee kicked off the tournament, blowing the referee’s whistle.

This community-driven event brought together runners, sponsors, partners, and celebrities, who all took to the field to enjoy in the joy and camaraderie of collective athletic spirit.

The spots are filling fast across all categories, like 25K, Open 10K, Ananda Run, Senior Citizens’ Run, and Champions with Disability runners. One can register soon at https://tatasteelworld25k.procam.in/  before the closing of registrations or sellout.

The landmark 10th edition provides an amazing assortment of ideas aimed to enrich every aspect of the Tata Steel World 25K experience. Participants can anticipate an environment unlike any other, from energetic cheering and music zones along the course to lively pre- and post-race festivities. Coupled with an unsurpassed fast course and world-class facilities, this edition promises a truly unique experience for runners across all categories.

12 specialized run clubs with almost 275 volunteers will be accompanying runners throughout the course and handling several on-route support stations.

Among them are the Jayanagar Jaguars, Rajarhat Runners, Newtown Runners, and North Kolkata Runners.

Each finisher receives a specially designed “Medal of Steel” from Tata Steel in honor of the 25K racers’ unwavering determination.

India’s premier homegrown Sportswear brand, T10, will offer a memorable race day for the 25K and 10K runners. Confirmed 25K entrants will receive a race day tee-shirt, while the fastest 1000 men and women runners in the open 10K category will earn a finishers tee-shirt.

In a tribute to Vijay Diwas, the famous Vijay Diwas Trophy is contested by the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force, involving 30 teams. For the 25K, each team fields three runners, and the winner is determined by the sum of their times. The top three teams take home INR 75,000, INR 60,000, and INR 45,000, respectively. The rolling trophy, which represents bravery and perseverance, was inspired by the legendary Vijay Smarak.

The Police Cup is a distinct category within the race. 175 police teams, 150 men’s and 25 women’s teams will compete, with each team fielding three runners for the 10K. The team with the fastest combined time will be proclaimed the champion.

For all fitness aficionados, the Get Active Expo is a one-stop shop. Furthermore, all confirmed participants are to collect their running bibs, study race day instructions and timetables, security measures, traffic restrictions, road closures, and other provisions that will come into force on Race Day. The Expo will be hosted at Netaji Indoor Stadium on Friday, 19th, and Saturday, 20th December 2025.

With preparations in full swing, Kolkata is all set for the Tata Steel World 25K Kolkata.

Priyanka Dutta