Sportiz and Jai Balaji Group (JBG) formally launched the 11th Edition of the JBG Kolkata Marathon 2026 in a magnificent celebration of athletics and citywide unity. The historic marathon, which will take place on November 29, 2026, under the inspiring slogan Cholo Dourai (Let’s Run), will bring together more than 15,000 runners from all over the country and the world.

This year’s edition introduces the Full Marathon (42.2 km), officially recognized as the only World Athletics Bronze Labeled Full Marathon in Eastern India, marking a historic advancement for distance running in the region. The event will include the Full Marathon (42.2 km), Half Marathon (21.1 km), 10 km, 5 km, Cosplay (costume run), and a special Heroes Category to guarantee an inclusive celebration for every running enthusiast. In the run-up to race day, several interesting pre-event programs will be implemented throughout the city.

Prominent athletes, dignitaries, and celebrities attended the launch event and were formally introduced as the faces of the 11th edition of the JBG Kolkata Marathon 2026.

The eminent dignitaries were

• Mr Gurindervir Singh, “the fastest man of India,” is the Event Ambassador
• Mr Milind Soman, renowned model, actor, and fitness icon, will be the Face of the Event
• Mr Sumit Antil, the Paralympic, World & Asian Champion in Men’s Javelin Throw, is the Face of the Special Heroes category
• Ms Saiyami Kher, Bollywood Actress, Marathon Runner & Triathlete will be the Star Guest Runner
• Mr Kartik Karkera, winner of Delhi & Mumbai Marathons, will be the Face of the Marathon category
• Ms Ankita Konwar, Triathlete & a national fitness influencer, will be the Mentor of over 50 Women Pacers

The event was also attended by the former Indian Olympian and long jumper, Ms Anju Bobby George.

“Being a part of an event that honors endurance, diversity, and the pure joy of running is an honor. The JBG Kolkata Marathon 2026 sets a standard for community involvement, empowering fifty female pacers and supporting para-athletes in the Special Heroes category. I am really looking forward to hitting the track again. This will be my second year at the Marathon,” said Ms. Saiyami Kher, a Bollywood actress, marathon runner, and triathlete.

Cholo Dourai, the official event anthem that encapsulates the essence of the marathon and the city of Kolkata, adds to the excitement of the JBG Kolkata Marathon. Cholo Dourai is more than just a song; it is a sincere celebration of the city’s dynamic culture, resilient populace, and constantly expanding running community. Running clubs, fitness enthusiasts, and enthusiastic athletes are brought together in the music video, which masterfully displays Kolkata’s famous landmarks while capturing the spirit, unity, and tenacity that characterize the city’s running movement. The anthem’s motivational message inspires people to adopt a healthier lifestyle, enjoy physical activity, and start down the path to becoming stronger, happier, and healthier.

Cholo Dourai is sung by Surjo Bhattacharjee, with lyrics and music by Kaustav Banerjee. The anthem has been produced by Sportiz and Jai Balaji Group.

Following the official announcement, registration is now open, and Kolkata is getting ready to come together from all walks of life to celebrate every stride and dream as the city comes together on November 29, 2026.

Priyanka Dutta