Bhubaneswar, March 8: Hundreds of women gathered at Kalinga Stadium on Sunday to participate in the International Women’s Day Marathon, marking a spirited celebration of strength, resilience, and solidarity.
The run served as the grand finale of a three-day state-wide programme held from March 6 to 8, aimed at promoting women’s health, safety, and leadership.
The event was flagged off by Surama Padhy, who encouraged the participants and highlighted the importance of women’s empowerment through health and fitness. Addressing the young athletes and students present, she said the enthusiasm and determination displayed by the participants reflected a promising future. She emphasized that when women prioritize their health and well-being, it strengthens the foundation of a more balanced and progressive society.
The marathon also showcased emerging talent from Odisha’s sports community. Diptirani Sahoo from Tigiria Physical Education College secured first place with an impressive display of endurance and pace. Sunita Santa of Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences finished second, demonstrating remarkable determination and athletic ability. Mamina Murmu from Maharshi College of Natural Law secured third place with a strong finish in the final stretch.
The marathon marked the culmination of a specially designed three-day programme celebrating women’s empowerment. The first day focused on mindfulness, with mass yoga sessions organized across districts to promote mental and physical well-being among women. The second day centered on strength through self-defense workshops that equipped young women with practical safety skills and confidence. The final day featured the marathon, where participants ran under the inspiring theme: “Her Progress is the Nation’s Progress.”
Also present on the occasion were Bhupendra Singh Poonia, Commissioner-cum-Secretary of the Sports and Youth Services Department, and Yeddula Vijay, Director of Sports, along with other senior officials from the department.
The 2026 International Women’s Day celebrations, organized by the Sports & Youth Services Department, concluded with participants taking a collective pledge to continue breaking barriers and advancing opportunities for women. By prioritizing women’s health and empowerment, the state reaffirmed its commitment to creating an environment where every girl is encouraged to lead and thrive.
