Raipur (thestates.news) | The marathon will begin at the historic Lalbagh Ground in Jagdalpur and conclude at the famed Chitrakote Waterfall, often described as the “Niagara of Asia.” The 42-kilometre route will take participants through dense sal forests, quiet hamlets, and undulating terrain, capturing the essence of Bastar’s landscape at every step.
The event has been structured to welcome runners of varying abilities, with categories spanning 42 km (full marathon), 21 km (half marathon), 10 km, and a 5 km fun run. A total prize purse of ₹25 lakh has been announced, alongside dedicated awards for participants from the Bastar division. To ensure wider local participation, registration has been made free for all runners from the Bastar district.
Beyond its athletic appeal, the marathon carries a deeper narrative. In a region once marked by insurgency, a notable number of participants will include rehabilitated former Maoists. Many of these individuals, who had once retreated into the dense forests, are now stepping into the public sphere with renewed purpose. Their participation reflects a broader transition underway in Bastar, one that seeks to replace conflict with opportunity.
This transformation has been supported by targeted rehabilitation initiatives such as the “Lon Varratu” (Come Back Home) campaign in Dantewada and the “Poona Margam” programme, which translates to “Rehabilitation to Rejuvenation.” These efforts have enabled dozens of former insurgents to reintegrate into mainstream society, offering them not only livelihood opportunities but also a renewed sense of dignity.
