Community meets the Capital

This iconic event brings together more than 30,000 runners, transforming the capital into a celebration of endurance, ambition, inclusion and community. With participants representing all 32 States and Union Territories, and over 31 countries, the event lives up to its positioning as The National Marathon.

Recognition by the Athletics Federation of India (AFI) as the National Marathon places the race firmly within India’s elite competitive athletics calendar.

The race is recognised by the Association of International Marathons and Distance Races (AIMS) and by World Athletics, reinforcing its standing within the international running community.

This convergence of elite athletes and recreational runners is one of the event’s defining strengths. The same start line brought together athletes chasing national qualification and first-time runners and families participating in the shorter distances.

The Cognizant New Delhi Marathon takes runners through the heart of India’s capital, creating a unique intersection between sport, history and civic identity. The race environment connects the modern culture of running with the city’s monumental landmarks and broad avenues.

For runners travelling from across India and overseas, the experience is about running through the capital of the country surrounded by the architecture and history that define New Delhi.

The route has historically taken in iconic locations including Lodhi Garden, Khan Market, Humayun’s Tomb, India Gate and Kartavya Path, giving participants a distinctly Delhi experience.

But the scale of the event was only one part of its story. An assessment of the recent edition points to a substantial 360° impact, spanning health, social and economic outcomes, alongside significant media and brand value. It shows how a marathon can create value far beyond the finish line.

The participation numbers are significant, but the real impact lies in what they represent: running clubs travelling together, corporate teams embracing fitness, young runners discovering endurance sport, experienced athletes pursuing new goals and communities using running as a platform for connection.

The participant findings bring this to life. Most participants reported real improvements across the board: better overall health, greater stamina and energy throughout the day, and a noticeable drop in stress levels.

The social dimension was just as compelling. The event created considerable social impact, with participants reporting a stronger sense of community belonging and greater civic pride in Delhi. Many said they formed new connections through the event, and inclusivity for women and people with diverse abilities came through strongly in the findings.

The Cognizant New Delhi Marathon is a statement about where Indian distance running is headed — more competitive, more inclusive, more national in reach and increasingly connected to the global running community.

It’s a race that brings the nation together, one stride at a time.