Running with Purpose: My Dream Run at the Tata Mumbai Marathon 2026

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On January 18, 2026, I participated in the Dream Run at the Tata Mumbai Marathon, a journey that began at CST and concluded along the iconic Marine Drive. This run was more than just a race for me—it was a way to represent a deeper purpose, one that lies close to my heart: raising awareness about epilepsy.

As I gathered in the wee hours of the morning at Gate No. 7, I found myself in a space that carried both the rhythm of the city and the weight of its history. Runners surrounded me on all sides, and it was astonishing to see so many people assembled before dawn, united by a shared sense of anticipation. Each runner carried their own story, their own reason for being there, and the air was thick with quiet excitement.

From CST, the route carried us through the beating heart of Mumbai—a city that, like the people running through it, never stops moving forward. This spirit of constant motion and resilience echoed the very essence captured in my book Inside Mumbai: Stories from the Heart of a Vibrant City.

There was a vibrant mix of participants—corporate teams dressed in company jerseys, NGO representatives advocating for meaningful causes, and individuals running purely for the joy of it. Every step I took reflected courage—not just my own, but that of people living with epilepsy and their families, who face daily challenges with unwavering strength. This run became a symbol of resilience, reflection, and hope.

Adding to the excitement was the presence of several well-known personalities and public figures who came out to cheer and support the runners. Among them were Milind Soman, John Abraham, Mandira Bedi, and Gul Panag, all strong advocates of fitness and active living. Sporting legends such as Sachin Tendulkar and Anju Bobby George added immense inspiration to the event.

Alongside them were corporate leaders from the Tata Group, NGO heads representing diverse social causes, and government and civic officials promoting fitness and social awareness. The energy was further amplified by school and college students holding handmade posters, families and friends lining Marine Drive, volunteers, bands, and members of local communities who came together to encourage every runner.

What truly stood out was how the entire city came together for this event. For those few hours, everyone blended into one collective crowd, and the energy felt equal, inclusive, and deeply human. Winning or losing was irrelevant—participation itself was the victory.




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