40,000+ runners set to take centre-stage in the 20th edition of Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon on Sunday, 12th October 2025

Asian Games medallist and national record holder Gulveer Singh & defending champion Lili Das, along with Sanjivani Jadhav headline the elite Indian line-up

• Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC), the city’s lifeline, has announced free metro travel on Race Day for all registered runners of the Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon 2025

Rakesh Thapliyal

New Delhi: The 20th edition of Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon will witness 40,000+ runners from across the world come together to soak in the vibrant colours of Delhi and celebrate the spirit of running. This overwhelming response with registrations oversubscribed across all categories marks yet another unforgettable chapter in the city’s sporting legacy #BreakingBarriersSince2005.

The world’s most prestigious half marathon, Promoted by Procam International, boasts a prize purse of USD 260,000 and will be flagged off from Delhi’s iconic Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium on Sunday, 12th October 2025.

Vivek Singh sharing his thoughts.

Vivek Singh, Jt. MD, Procam International, said, “As we gear up for the 20th edition, it is humbling to see 40,000+ participants from India and overseas come together to celebrate this landmark 20th edition. This growth has been possible with the determination of our elite athletes and the passion of countless amateur runners that makes this celebration of sport so special. To have representation from our Indian athletes such as Gulveer Singh, Sanjivani Jadhav Kavita Yadav and Lili Das augurs well as an inspiration for the next generation of aspiring Indian runners.By nurturing this running movement, all our partners especially Vedanta and IDFC FIRST Bank have truly elevated the stature of the event. We are equally delighted to welcome Red Bull on board this year, bringing with them fresh initiatives to liven up this milestone edition.”

“Lastly, the encouragement and steadfast backing by Government of Delhi, and the Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports Govt. of India, has been pivotal in reinforcing the event’s place as one of the world’s most sought after races,” he said further.

Priya Agarwal Hebbar, Non-Executive Director, Vedanta Ltd., Chairperson, Hindustan Zinc Ltd., said, “As we mark the 20th edition of the Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon, the #RunForZeroHunger movement is stronger than ever. Over the past three years, your participation has helped provide 17 million meals. This year, every kilometre you run will deliver a Poshan Pack to children and animals. With a commitment to provide 5 million Poshan Packs, let’s come together to nourish the future of India”.

Shreepad Shende, Chief Marketing Officer, IDFC FIRST Bank, said, “Running a marathon and achieving financial wellbeing both demand planning and discipline. At IDFC FIRST Bank, our customer-first philosophy empowers individuals to create their own journey to financial independence, just like runners mapping their way to the finish line. As we countdown to the Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon’s landmark 20th edition, we’re proud to support this celebration of resilience, progress, and purpose. These are values that define both the race and our commitment to stand by our customers every step of the way.”

Indian athletes to vie for glory.

The Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon is a platform where India’s best athletes compete alongside the world’s best for top honors. To mark its 20th edition, a special performance bonus of INR 2 lakhs will be awarded to any Indian athlete who sets a new event record, along with an additional USD 2,000 for a sub-60-minute finish, a tribute to their dedication and an effort to inspire record-breaking performances on home soil.

The women’s contest will be led by PUMA athlete Sanjivani Jadhav, the winner of the 10,000m Portland Track Festival High-Performance Meet in the USA in 2024, where she clocked a personal best of 32:22.77. Sanjivani also won silver at the recently concluded Senior National Championships in Bengaluru in the 5,000m, and has been a gold medallist at the TCS World 10K Bengaluru 2025 as well as the Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon in 2018 and 2022.

Joining her will be defending champion and PUMA athlete Lili Das, along with 2023 gold medallist Kavita Yadav, who had pushed Sanjivani hard in last year’s edition before claiming the title.

The men’s race will see a high-voltage clash between the Asian Games medallist and multiple national record holder Gulveer Singh, and the in-form Abhishek Pal, winner of the TCS World 10K Bengaluru 2025 and double gold medallist at the National Inter-State Senior Athletics Championships 2025.

Commenting on his maiden participation, Gulveer Singh said, “I am looking forward to the 20th Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon, the competition here is tough and the course is great. My eyes are on the half-marathon national record, and I am in good shape to try and break it.”

Abhishek Pal, Gold Medallist at the 2023 Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon, said, “This year has been good for me in terms of consistent performances, and the Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon is the perfect way to round it off. My preparation has been strong, and my focus is on the timing – because that ultimately reflects progress. The long-term target is to get under 60 minutes, and every race like this brings me closer to that mark. It’s not just about competing with others, but also about challenging myself to raise the bar each time I step onto the road,”.

Lili Das, PUMA athlete and defending champion of the Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon. “The women’s field is going to be very exciting this year with runners like Sanjeevani Jadhav and Ankita Jani joining the race. For me, such rivalries are important because they push us to dig deeper, improve our performances, and contribute to taking women’s distance running in India to the next level”.

2025 IN FOCUS

Red Bull joins the Running Movement
Known for supporting world-class endurance and adventure sports globally, Red Bull’s entry into the Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon brings additional excitement for runners on and off the course. From interactive zones to on-ground support, Red Bull will ensure that participants are able to give their best on race day.
Sarathee Spearheads PwD Volunteering at VDHM 2025
The Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon is taking its commitment to inclusion a step further. In a pilot project along with Sarathee, a for-profit organisation, will lead a groundbreaking initiative, integrating Persons with Disabilities (PwDs) as key volunteers during the Expo and on Race Day.
For the first time, PwDs will go beyond participation to take on vital roles that contribute directly to delivering a smooth, safe, and memorable race experience for every runner. From crowd management and hospitality to information desks and logistics, each volunteer’s role will be thoughtfully planned, aligning their skills and availability.
Sarathee has long been dedicated to redefining the future of work by bridging the skill gap between PwDs and employers. Together with VDHM, Sarathee is not just promoting visibility but enabling real, impactful participation, setting a new benchmark for inclusive sporting events in India and beyond.
Exclusive Race Day Tee by PUMA, Sports Goods Partner
Every Half Marathon and Open 10K participant will receive an exclusive Race Day tee specially designed by PUMA as a token honouring the runners’ hard work, dedication, and relentless spirit.
Delhi Metro Rail Corporation – powers the vision of a greener tomorrow
For the convenience and benefit of all participants, the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC), the city’s lifeline, has announced free metro travel on Race Day for all registered runners of the Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon 2025. Half marathon participants can alight at JLN Stadium, Jangpura (Violet Line), or Jor Bagh (Yellow Line). For the Open 10K, the nearest stations are Janpath (Violet Line) and Rajiv Chowk (Yellow & Blue Line).
The Metro services will start at 3:15 a.m. from both terminal stations on Lines 1 (Red), 2 (Yellow), 3/4 (Blue), and 6 (Violet), running every 15 minutes until 4:00 a.m. and every 20 minutes thereafter until regular services begin.
At the Expo, each participant will receive a non-tearable wristband which will carry two QR codes for ‘to-and-fro trips’, and must be scanned while travelling.

Setting the Pace for Sustainability
VDHM 2025 champions sustainability with a Zero Waste to Landfill approach. In partnership with NDMC, Hasiru Dala Innovations, and Chintan, the event ensures responsible waste management, composting of organic waste, and plastic-free race kits. Leftover water is reused for green spaces, low-carbon transport is encouraged with e-autos and bicycle parking at JLN Stadium, and surplus food is redistributed to communities in need. Partnerships with NGOs further promote biodiversity and environmental awareness.
At the Expo, a Shoe Donation Drive collects and donates shoes, proving that sport can drive lasting social and environmental impact.

Run Back to Your Childhood with the Run in Costume
The Run in Costume Contest, exclusive to participants of the Great Delhi Run, invites you to channel your inner child and dress up as your favourite cartoon character. Whether you’re going solo or assembling your own cartoon squad, this is your chance to transform into the animated legends you grew up with—from Chhota Bheem to Shinchan, Scooby-Doo to Doraemon. Add your twist, tell a story about how these characters shaped your dreams, and win cash prizes and exciting event merchandise.
Pacers Set the Rhythm.

The Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon is fondly known as a PB race for runners. To further this aim, twenty-four pacers will guide participants to the finish line. The Half Marathon will feature 12 pacers, while the Open 10K will feature an all-women pacer squad.

Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon virtual run
Registrations for the Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon Virtual Run are ongoing! Runners worldwide can participate via the official event app in the Half Marathon, Open 10K, or Great Delhi Run (5 km). Register by 11:59 p.m. on Monday, October 6, 2025, or until spots fill up. Register now at https://vedantadelhihalfmarathon.procam.in/.

Mirchi Get Active Expo
The Mirchi Get Active Expo, a one-stop hub for runners and fitness enthusiasts, will be held at NSIC Exhibition Ground, Okhla Phase III, New Delhi, from Thursday, 9th October to Saturday, 11th October 2025. All registered runners must visit the Expo to collect their bibs and can also enjoy exciting offers from leading sports and lifestyle brands. Timings: 10:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. (Thu & Fri) and 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. (Sat)
The Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon will be telecast live by Sony Sports 1 on October 12 from 6:30 to 10:30 a.m. and on Sony LIV.

For more information, follow
https://vedantadelhihalfmarathon.procam.in/
https://www.instagram.com/delhihalfmarathon/
https://x.com/DelhiHM_
https://www.facebook.com/DelhiHM
https://www.youtube.com/@DelhiHalfMarathon.