11th Edition Of JBG Kolkata Marathon 2026

11^th Edition Of JBG Kolkata Marathon 2026

11th Edition of JBG Kolkata Marathon 2026 Set to Bring Kolkata Together Under ‘Cholo Dourai’
Eastern India’s Only World Athletics Bronze Labelled Full Marathon Scheduled for November 29, 2026
Star-studded Line-up Includes Milind Soman, Gurindervir Singh, Saiyami Kher, Sumit Antil, Kartik Karkera, Anju Bobby George and Ankita Konw
Reported by Sanchita Chatterjee
Kolkata, August 9, 2026: In a grand celebration of athletics, fitness and citywide unity, Sportiz and Jai Balaji Group (JBG) officially launched the 11th Edition of the JBG Kolkata Marathon 2026 under the evocative slogan ‘Cholo Dourai’ (Let’s Run).

The landmark marathon is scheduled to take place on November 29, 2026, and is expected to bring together more than 15,000 runners from across India and around the world.

Marking a significant milestone for distance running in Eastern India, this year’s edition introduces a Full Marathon of 42.2 km, officially recognised as Eastern India’s only World Athletics Bronze Labelled Full Marathon.The event will offer multiple categories to ensure an inclusive experience for running enthusiasts of all levels, including the Full Marathon (42.2 km), Half Marathon (21.1 km), 10 km, 5 km, Cosplay (Costume Run) and a dedicated Special Heroes Category. A series of engaging pre-event initiatives will also be organised across Kolkata in the run-up to race day.The launch event was attended by distinguished sports personalities, celebrities and dignitaries, who were introduced as the faces and ambassadors of the 11th edition.

Gurindervir Singh, described as the “fastest man of India”, will be the Event Ambassador. 

Milind Soman, renowned model, actor and fitness icon, will be the Face of the Event. Sumit Antil, Paralympic, World and Asian Champion in Men’s Javelin Throw, will be the Face of the Special Heroes Category. Saiyami Kher, Bollywood actress, marathon runner and triathlete, will be the Star Guest Runner.Kartik Karkera, winner of the Delhi and Mumbai Marathons, will be the Face of the Marathon Category. Ankita Konwar, triathlete and national fitness influencer, will mentor more than 50 women pacers.The event will also feature the presence of former Indian Olympian and long jumper Anju Bobby George.

Commenting on the occasion, Gaurav Jajodia, Director, 

Jai Balaji Group, said that the 11th edition represents a defining milestone for sport and community health in Eastern India. He highlighted that securing the World Athletics Bronze Label certification places Kolkata on the global marathon map and expressed excitement over bringing together international athletes, fitness enthusiasts and sporting icons.

Nishant Maheshwari, CEO & Founder, Sportiz and Race Director, 

JBG Kolkata Marathon, said that bringing Eastern India’s first World Athletics Bronze Labelled Full Marathon to Kolkata had been a passion project for Sportiz. He emphasised the importance of race operations, precision timing, route hydration, medical safety and comprehensive runner support in delivering a world-class marathon experience.

Saiyami Kher expressed her honour at being associated with an event that celebrates endurance, inclusivity and the joy of running. She highlighted the initiative to empower 50 women pacers and the inclusion of para-athletes through the Special Heroes Category. She also expressed her excitement about returning to the marathon for the second consecutive year.

Adding to the excitement is ‘Cholo Dourai’, the official anthem of the JBG Kolkata Marathon 2026. The anthem celebrates Kolkata’s vibrant culture, resilient people and growing running community.

The accompanying music video showcases the city’s iconic landmarks while bringing together running clubs, fitness enthusiasts and athletes. Through its message of health, fitness, determination and community spirit, the anthem encourages people to take their first step towards a stronger and healthier life.

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

The JBG Kolkata Marathon is title-sponsored by Jai Balaji Group and promoted by Sportiz, under the aegis of the Athletics Federation of India. The route has been measured and certified by World Athletics and AIMS, and the event supports the national Fit India campaign.

The marathon is backed by JBG HEXA TMT as Strength Partner, T10 Sports as Apparel Partner, Fast & Up as Energy Drink Partner, Zandu Fast Relief as Pain Relief Partner, 98.3 Radio Mirchi as Entertainment Partner, India Cares Foundation as Philanthropy Partner, and RevSportz as Online Media Partner.

With registrations now open, Kolkata is gearing up to come together on November 29, 2026, as thousands of runners take to the streets under the spirit of ‘Cholo Dourai’.

About JBG Kolkata Marathon

The JBG Kolkata Marathon is Eastern India’s premier distance running event, promoted by Sportiz and title-sponsored by Jai Balaji Group. Across eleven successful editions, the marathon has championed health, fitness, community spirit and inclusivity, evolving into a globally recognised athletic platform associated with World Athletics, Athletics Federation of India and AIMS.