BENGALURU, September 02, 2026 — Bengaluru is set to awaken to the rhythmic footsteps of thousands as the Wipro Bengaluru Marathon returns for its landmark 13th edition on Sunday, 27th September 2026. Expected to draw more than 45,000 participants—including runners from the global Spirit of Wipro Run—the flagship event stands as one of the city’s most significant annual fitness and community celebrations.
Organized by NEB Sports in association with the Karnataka Athletics Association, Wipro Limited, and Shriram Properties, the marathon continues to be a cornerstone of Bengaluru’s sporting calendar, drawing fitness enthusiasts, elite athletes, and inspirational figures from across the nation and around the globe.
A Scenic Route Through the Heart of the Garden City
Flagging off from the iconic Sree Kanteerava Stadium, the marathon route offers participants a picturesque journey through the vibrant heritage and green spaces of Bengaluru. The course winds past some of the city’s most distinguished landmarks, including the majestic Vidhana Soudha, the lush canopy of Cubbon Park, and the energetic stretches of MG Road.
The 2026 edition accommodates runners of all experience levels with a diverse lineup of race categories:
- Full Marathon (42.195 km): For seasoned distance runners pushing their limits.
- Half Marathon (21.097 km): A classic benchmark for endurance runners.
- 10K & 5K Runs: Popular routes for speed focus, beginners, and fitness enthusiasts.
- Spirit of Wipro Run: Bringing together corporate teams, families, and partners.
- Charity 10K: A dedicated category empowering runners to raise funds for social causes.
While many participants will be chasing personal records and qualifying times, the overarching narrative of this year’s event centers around human triumph, personal milestones, and the transformative power of endurance.
Highlighting Courage: The 2026 Brand Ambassadors
This year, the Wipro Bengaluru Marathon puts a firm spotlight on the courage required to keep moving forward despite life’s steepest obstacles. At the heart of the 2026 campaign are nine exceptional individuals selected as official Brand Ambassadors.
Each ambassador represents a story of profound resilience. Having navigated severe life challenges—ranging from physical disabilities to personal adversities—these runners turned to the sport not merely as a fitness routine, but as a path toward healing, independence, and empowerment. Rather than allowing hardship to dictate their trajectories, they chose the open road.
Throughout the campaign and on race day, the marathon will honor their personal victories, reminding the community that crossing the finish line is often the culmination of a much deeper, unseen journey.
Driving Social Impact and Global Synergy
Beyond the athletic achievement, the event serves as a powerful catalyst for philanthropic giving and corporate social responsibility.
- The Charity 10K: Continuing its tradition of giving back, the Charity 10K has raised over ₹45 lakh in recent editions. The funds directly support select non-governmental organizations (NGOs) dedicated to uplifting underprivileged communities and expanding grassroots sports development program across India.
- 21st Spirit of Wipro Run: Celebrating its 21st anniversary, the Spirit of Wipro Run unites Wipro employees, clients, families, and community partners across more than 70 cities worldwide. As a signature gesture, Bengaluru will host the inaugural event of this year’s global relay as part of the 13th Wipro Bengaluru Marathon.
Leadership Perspectives
Ranjita Ghosh, Chief Marketing Officer, Wipro Limited:
“The Wipro Bengaluru Marathon has always stood for purpose in action. This year, the stories of our brand ambassadors make that spirit even more powerful. Each of them reminds us that real progress is not about promises, but about the proof we create through perseverance, courage, and action. As we also mark the 21st edition of the Spirit of Wipro Run, we are proud to bring together our employees, partners, customers, and the city of Bengaluru in a shared celebration of resilience, inclusion, and meaningful impact.”
Mr. Murali Malayappan, Chairman and Managing Director, Shriram Properties Ltd:
“Bengaluru has always been a city of energy, ambition, and resilience, and the Bengaluru Marathon captures that spirit remarkably well. Our association goes back 13 years, to when Shriram Properties and NEB Sports came together to anchor and build this platform. It has been deeply rewarding to see the marathon grow into one of the city’s most celebrated sporting events. This year’s focus on individuals who have overcome personal challenges makes the event even more meaningful.”
Nagaraj Adiga, Race Director, Wipro Bengaluru Marathon:
“I have watched this marathon grow over the years, but what continues to stay with me is not the numbers—it is the people. Every runner comes with a reason. Some are chasing a personal best, some are running their first 5K, and some are simply trying to prove something to themselves. Their journeys are a reminder that the biggest victories are often the ones nobody sees. We look forward to giving everyone a memorable race day.”
Rajender Kataria, Principal Secretary, Government of Karnataka:
“Fitness and an active lifestyle are increasingly becoming an important part of how we think about the health and well-being of our citizens. Events such as the Wipro Bengaluru Marathon play a vital role in making fitness accessible and enjoyable. We are happy to support an event that encourages people to challenge themselves, and we look forward to seeing the city come alive on race day.”
Join the Celebration
With thousands of participants arriving from across India and abroad, the city extends an open invitation to residents, families, and local businesses to gather along the route, cheer on the runners, and experience the collective energy of race day.
