Over 3,800 participants gather at Shangumugham Beach as the coastal city adds momentum to the nationwide Run for a Greener India movement
A coastal run with a green purpose unfolded in Thiruvananthapuram as the city hosted the SBI Green Marathon Season 6 at Shangumugham Beach, bringing together fitness, environmental awareness, and community participation. Held on December 24, 2025, the event marked the marathon’s arrival in Kerala’s capital after energising cities across the country, including Lucknow, Chandigarh, Bhopal, Visakhapatnam, Bengaluru, Guwahati, Kolkata, and Ahmedabad.
As the sun rose over the Arabian Sea, Shangumugham Beach became the backdrop for a morning defined by movement and mindfulness. Known for its close relationship with nature and a lifestyle rooted in wellness, Thiruvananthapuram provided a fitting setting for the Run for a Greener India initiative, which continues to emphasise sustainability alongside physical fitness.
More than 3,800 participants took part in the event, representing a diverse cross section of the community. Seasoned runners, students, families, organised fitness groups, and defence personnel came together not only to test endurance but also to collectively endorse environmental responsibility and healthier ways of living. The turnout reflected growing public engagement with initiatives that combine sport with social purpose.
The marathon was flagged off by senior representatives of State Bank of India, reaffirming the institution’s focus on sustainability and community well being. The dignitaries included Shri KV Bangarraju, Chief General Manager, Shri Rajesh Kumar Meena, General Manager Network 2, Shri Manmohan Swain, General Manager Network 3, and Shri Ashutosh Rai, Deputy General Manager and Chief Development Officer. Their presence underscored the bank’s continued support for initiatives that link nation building with environmental consciousness.
Staying aligned with its eco first approach, the SBI Green Marathon delivered a race experience designed to minimise environmental impact. Participants received organic T shirts, plantable bibs, and reusable cloth goodie bags as alternatives to single use materials. Black alkaline water was provided to support hydration and post run recovery, while dedicated waste management systems ensured responsible segregation and disposal throughout the venue.
Adding energy to the morning was RJ Angel, whose presence and interactions kept both runners and spectators engaged from the flag off to the finish. The event atmosphere blended enthusiasm with a shared sense of purpose, reinforcing the idea that sustainability driven initiatives can also be inclusive and celebratory.
The marathon featured 5K, 10K, and Half Marathon categories, all conducted on AIMS certified routes. This ensured global standard course measurement and a professional racing experience for participants. The coastal stretches along Shangumugham Beach, combined with cool sea breezes and open pathways, made the run both refreshing and memorable for runners across categories.
With each stride along the shoreline, Thiruvananthapuram reaffirmed its commitment to environmental awareness, collective action, and holistic well being. From the sunrise flag off to the eco conscious post run activities, the city added a meaningful chapter to the marathon’s 17 city journey.
As SBI Green Marathon Season 6 continues across India, the Thiruvananthapuram edition stands as a reminder that when communities run together with intent, every step contributes to a greener tomorrow.
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