Sarees, Sneakers, and Heritage: Women Fill Vijayapura Streets for Pre-Marathon Run

The morning calm in Vijayapura gave way to lively footsteps and cheering crowds on Sunday as hundreds of women and young girls gathered to participate in the Women’s Promo run. Winding past the city's architectural marvels, the route offered a distinctive sight: an overwhelming majority of participants chose to hit the tarmac wearing traditional ethnic dresses and sarees rather than conventional sportswear.

A Scenic Course Between Gagan Mahal and Gol Gumbaz

The event was formally flagged off in front of Gagan Mahal by academic Ranjitha K.R. and dentist Savita Kallur. Runners made their way toward the iconic Gol Gumbaz before concluding their circuit back at the starting pavilion. Energy ran high throughout the corridor, with college and university students running alongside working professionals, homemakers, and senior citizens.

As participants navigated the course, volunteers handed out sweets and energy drinks while chants echoed through the streets. Runners raised slogans highlighting gender empowerment and ecological mindfulness, including ‘If she runs, the path becomes wider’ and ‘The step she takes is a message about environment protection’.

Wellness, Pledges, and Community Support

The morning went beyond running. B.K. Saroja from the Brahmakumari Ishwariya Vishvavidyalaya administered a pledge advocating freedom from addiction and guided attendees through a short meditation exercise. A contingent of Brahmakumaris and elderly participants joined the course, including Basavaraj Nimbaragi and Gurubai, the parents of Superintendent of Police Laxman Nimbaragi.

“I am very happy to see women participating enthusiastically in such a large number. Every one should register now to participate in the Vrikshathon Heritage Run Marathon to be held on December 13,” said Dr. Kallur, who also committed to running the upcoming event.

Marathoner and yoga specialist Renuka Prasad, who coached many of the participants leading up to Sunday, reminded runners that the road ahead offered plenty of preparation time.

“There are still three months left for the Vrikshathon Heritage Run, and during this period, I will train the participants on projects that will enable them to run more kilometres. I ask all of you to run with confidence,” Prasad noted.

Ramping Up for December

To conclude the morning on a celebratory note, Savitri Davleshwar led the crowd in a high-energy Zumba workout. Attendees also lined up at selfie booths to document the day across social media and browsed event counters promoting a house and garden competition tied to the broader green initiative.

The promo run served as an official launchpad for the full-scale Vrikshathon Heritage Run set for December 13, with event organizers offering a 10% discount on registrations completed at the venue stalls.