Mangaluru: Thousands of people participated in the fourth edition of the Mangaluru Dasara Marathon, organised by Kudroli Sri Gokarnanatha Temple on Saturday, October 17, as part of the city’s Dasara celebrations.
The event brought together students, youngsters, fitness enthusiasts and senior citizens, with participants taking part in four categories — 21 km, 10 km, 5 km and 3 km. The marathon aimed to promote physical fitness while celebrating the spirit of unity associated with social reformer Sri Narayana Guru.
Four running categories attract participants
The marathon began at the Kudroli Sri Gokarnanatha Temple premises, with runners setting off on routes that passed through some of Mangaluru’s major streets.
The four categories offered opportunities for participants with different levels of fitness and running experience to take part in the event.
The 21-km run provided a challenge for long-distance runners, while the 10-km and 5-km categories attracted participants looking for shorter distances. The 3-km run also enabled people to join the celebrations through a fitness-oriented activity.
Students, youth and senior citizens participated enthusiastically, reflecting the broad appeal of the event.
Runners pass through illuminated city streets
Starting from the temple premises, the marathon route passed through Alike Road, Mannagudda and M.G. Road, among other stretches of the city.
The illuminated streets added to the festive atmosphere, with residents and spectators gathering along the route to cheer the runners.
The event formed part of the wider Mangaluru Dasara celebrations, which combine religious programmes and cultural activities with public participation across the city.
Promoting fitness and Narayana Guru’s message
The organisers said the marathon was intended not only to encourage physical fitness but also to uphold the message of unity associated with Sri Narayana Guru, the social reformer who built the Kudroli Gokarnanatha Temple.
Narayana Guru is remembered for his efforts to challenge social discrimination and promote equality. The temple, which serves as a prominent centre for Mangaluru Dasara, continues to organise activities that bring people together during the annual celebrations.
By welcoming participants from different age groups, the marathon offered an opportunity to combine a public fitness initiative with the broader values associated with the temple’s history.
Police make traffic arrangements
The Mangaluru City Police made elaborate traffic arrangements to facilitate the event and manage vehicle movement along the marathon route.
The measures were intended to help runners proceed safely through the designated streets while minimising inconvenience to other road users.
The successful conduct of the fourth edition added a sporting dimension to the city’s Dasara festivities, bringing together thousands of participants and spectators in a shared celebration of fitness and community spirit.