Pune: Governor of Maharashtra C. P. Radhakrishnan flagged off the Vijay Diwas Ultra Marathon from Shaheed Smarak, Colaba.

Organized by the Indian Army, this iconic event commemorates the valor and sacrifice of soldiers during the 1971 Indo-Pak War, while setting the stage for the grand Army Day Parade in Pune on January 15, 2025.

Spanning 405 kilometers, the ultra-marathon traverses Maharashtra’s key cities and military cantonments, including Nashik, Ahmednagar, and Kolhapur, before culminating at the Pune War Memorial on Vijay Diwas (December 16, 2024).

This historic journey is not only a tribute to the Armed Forces but also a celebration of fitness, resilience, and national pride.

The Indian Army has opened the event to professional runners, serving personnel, veterans, National Cadet Corps (NCC) cadets, and citizens.

Participants can join relay segments, cheer from the sidelines, or engage in cultural and motivational activities along the route. These initiatives aim to strengthen the bond between the Armed Forces and civilians, fostering a spirit of camaraderie and gratitude toward those who defend the nation’s sovereignty.

The marathon also features interactive workshops, cultural performances, and opportunities to connect with veterans, symbolizing unity, endurance, and respect for the Armed Forces.

Its conclusion on Vijay Diwas will mark the decisive victory of the Indian Army in 1971, reinforcing the nation’s gratitude toward its military heroes.

As the marathon progresses through Maharashtra’s heartland, it promises to inspire communities, promote the ideals of fitness and national pride, and honor the sacrifices of those who protect the nation.