Jaipur: On Sunday morning, Jaipur’s streets transformed into a vibrant arena of fitness and sporting spirit, as if the entire city had stepped out to celebrate health and endurance. Organised by Sanskriti Yuva Sanstha and World Trade Park, with the support of AU Small Finance Bank and Rajasthan Tourism, the AU Jaipur Marathon 2026 infused the city with unmatched energy, discipline and enthusiasm. From as early as 3 am, nearly one lakh runners participated across various categories, not only setting new benchmarks but also reaffirming Jaipur’s position among India’s leading marathon destinations. Throughout the day, the city resonated with marathon activities, creating a truly sports-driven atmosphere.The marathon was flagged off by Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma. On this occasion, President of Sanskriti Yuva Sanstha Pt. Suresh Mishra, Chairman of World Trade Park Anoop Bartaria, COO of AU Small Finance Bank Yogesh Jain, Managing Director of Aavas Finance Sachinder Bhinder, MD of INA Solar Vikas Jain, Mahant of Mehandipur Balaji Temple Nareshpuri Ji, former Deputy Mayor of Jaipur Greater Municipal Corporation Puneet Karnawat, BJP Treasurer Shyam Agrawal, Race Director of AU Jaipur Marathon and Co-founder of Jaipur Runners Ravi Goyanka, and CEO of AU Jaipur Marathon Mukesh Mishra were present.A special highlight of the event was fitness icon Milind Soman, who himself ran the 21-km International Half Marathon, inspiring participants with his presence and performance.Praising the organisers, Bhajan Lal Sharma said: “AU Jaipur Marathon is not merely a sporting event; it is a strong step towards building a healthier Rajasthan. The participation of over one lakh runners reflects that our society is embracing fitness as a way of life. Today, Jaipur is emerging not only as a city of heritage and tourism, but also as a national hub for sports and health awareness. I congratulate the organisers and all runners for this grand event.“Expressing satisfaction over the success of the event, Pt. Suresh Mishra, President of Sanskriti Yuva Sanstha, stated: “This marathon is not just a race; it is an effort to turn a healthy lifestyle into a people’s movement. The success of the 17th edition of AU Jaipur Marathon has proved that Jaipur has carved a distinct identity among the country’s leading marathon destinations. Entering the 18th edition next year will be historic, and we look forward to carrying this journey forward with the same energy and collective support.“CEO of AU Jaipur Marathon Mukesh Mishra thanked the administration, police, medical teams, volunteers and all runners, saying: “AU Jaipur Marathon 2026 presented a unique blend of sports, science and social unity. It conveyed that fitness is not just an individual goal but a shared responsibility. In the coming years, we aim to organise this marathon on an even larger and more impactful scale.”Another major attraction of the marathon was the participation of Milind Soman, who motivated runners by running alongside them, while Bollywood actress Ishita Raj cheered participants, adding glamour and encouragement to the event.AU Jaipur Marathon witnesses two world recordsTwo world records were created during the marathon. The first was achieved by students of Vivekananda Global University, who performed a collective rendition of “Vande Mataram” — the first such performance at any sports event in the country.The second world record was set through a scientific experiment titled “Mother – The Centre of Balance,” giving the event a distinctive and historic dimension.Participant convenience and safety were given top priority. With extensive arrangements including medical teams, ambulances, refreshment points, traffic management and volunteers, all races were conducted smoothly and on schedule.Runners from India and abroadRunners from 32 countries took part in the AU Jaipur Marathon. Specially-abled children and physically challenged participants also joined the event, showcasing inclusivity and determination.Winners in various categoriesFull Marathon (42.195-km) – Men1st: Nilesh Arsekar – 2:30:062nd: Manav Sharma – 2:32:153rd: Rahul Kataria – 2:48:16Full Marathon – Women1st: Arpita Saini – 3:25:36Half Marathon – Men1st: Versi Ram – 1:10:422nd: Jujhar Singh – 1:10:443rd: Ramswaroop Jat – 1:14:07Half Marathon – Women1st: Aarti Rao – 1:22:342nd: Saloni – 1:32:133rd: Rinki Yadav – 1:36:0010K Green Run – MenWinner: Hitesh Bhatt – 0:32:1210K Green Run – WomenWinner: Deepika Sharma – 0:43:235-km RunWinner: Omveer – 0:16:52The AU Jaipur Marathon has once again proven that Jaipur is not only a city of heritage and tourism, but also a growing centre of fitness and sporting spirit. The massive participation of runners and the seamless organisation have made this marathon an inspiring model, destined to scale even greater heights in the years to come.
