Thousands of runners celebrated Odia identity through the Heritage Marathon in Bhubaneswar’s historic Ekamra Kshetra on April 5.
The Department of Sports and Youth Services organised the event as part of “Odia Pakhya.” The marathon began at 5:30 a.m. from Mukteswar Temple and passed through Rameswar Temple, Vivekananda Marg, Utkal Kanika Galleria Mall, Lewis Road, BJB College, and Ravi Talkies Square before concluding at the iconic Rajarani Temple.
Athletes, youth groups, differently-abled participants, and local residents joined senior officials in the run. They pledged to protect and promote Odisha’s rich heritage. Chandan Samal secured first place, Siddharth Kumar Mishra finished second, and Bijay Agrawal claimed third. Organisers honoured winners with medals and recognition, while every participant received medals as a mark of encouragement.
Ekamra MLA highlighted the marathon’s cultural significance, stating that it connects the younger generation with Odisha’s glorious history. He emphasised that ancient temples and monuments symbolise Odia identity and preserving them is a collective responsibility.
The initiative followed the call of Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi and Sports Minister Suryabanshi Suraj, who envisioned the marathon as a bridge between youth and heritage. Commissioner Bhupendra Singh Punia, senior officials Ashok Kumar Panda and Bijay Kumar Swain, Olympian Anuradha Biswal, and popular Odia actress Sangeeta Shibani also joined the event, adding vibrancy to the occasion.
The Heritage Marathon showcased Odisha’s cultural pride and reinforced the message that heritage preservation strengthens identity and inspires future generations.
