The Tata Mumbai Marathon transformed the city's streets into a vibrant stage for social causes. Thousands of runners participated in this major sporting event. They carried powerful messages about animal welfare and environmental protection alongside their personal endurance goals.
Running for the Voiceless
The Welfare of Stray Dogs (WSD), a Mumbai-based NGO, joined the marathon with a clear mission. They aimed to give a voice to voiceless animals. The organization promoted sterilisation and vaccination as humane, scientific methods for controlling the stray dog population.
A Personal Journey of Care
Vidhita Chainani shared her heartfelt story. She began by caring for one stray dog near her building. That number quickly grew to forty. "I realised that just feeding them wasn't enough," Chainani explained. "Sterilisation actually controls suffering. That's when I connected with WSD. They treated and sterilised dogs free of cost. Running today is my way of supporting that work."
Farah Dotiwalla, a long-time WSD volunteer, also spoke passionately. She said running for the cause felt completely natural. "This cause is my belief and a part of my life. WSD gave me direction to channel my love for dogs into real action," Dotiwalla stated. She mentioned passing this compassionate lifestyle to her five-year-old child. Dotiwalla urged citizens to educate themselves and move beyond fear. She emphasized that co-existence with animals is rooted in science, nature, and culture.
Championing Mumbai's Green Lung
Environmental activism formed another major theme of the marathon. Over four hundred citizens rallied to save Sanjay Gandhi National Park (SGNP). Many supporters did not run. Instead, they stood along the route, cheering runners with striking posters. Their demand was clear: scrap the proposed Eco-Sensitive Zone (ESZ) draft plan from the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC).
Voicing Concerns for the Forest
Nishant Bangera ran with a Save SGNP message. He called the ESZ draft "a recipe for climate disaster." Bangera warned that the plan permits real estate development in forested areas. "This will lead to concretisation and deforestation of Mumbai's only green lung," he said. "Its existence is directly linked to our health and the future of Adivasi communities."
Bangera, participating in his fourth Mumbai Marathon, raised additional issues. He noted high air quality index levels and fewer water stations along parts of the route. "The marathon is Mumbai's cultural heritage and always electrifying," Bangera added. "But these are issues organisers must address."
A Marathon with a Message
As runners crossed the finish line and supporters waved their placards, a unified message emerged. The Tata Mumbai Marathon proved to be more than a race. Every kilometre run served as a powerful call for action. Participants advocated for a kinder city towards animals and a greener city for all. The event showcased how sport can amplify important social and environmental conversations.
