New Delhi runs as one – 20th Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon lights up the National Capital

Spirit, Sweat, and Celebration: 40,500+ Strong at the Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon

Delhi CM Rekha Gupta flags off the Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon. 

Rakesh Thapliyal

New Delhi: It was an early morning to remember as over 40,500 runners converged at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in New Delhi for the 20th edition of the Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon – an event that fittingly kickstarted the city’s Diwali festivities with spirit, sweat, and smiles.

Participants of the Great Delhi Run in the Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon 2025

The capital woke up to a festive atmosphere as participants from all walks of life – professionals, students, soldiers, and senior citizens – streamed into the venue. The city streets turned into a moving canvas of colour and camaraderie, as the participants decked in the race’s #BreakingBarriers marked the 20th edition of the road race.

This year’s event once again celebrated inclusivity and diversity through categories such as the Great Delhi Run, the Champions with Disability Run, and the Senior Citizens Run –each echoing the indomitable human spirit. Over 14,000 participants used the Great Delhi Run to champion social causes close to their hearts.

“It was a beautiful morning in Delhi, full of energy, with over 40,000 runners and 10,000 women participating,” said Smt. Rekha Gupta, Hon’ble Chief Minister of Delhi NCT. “This morning truly belonged to the city and its people. “When 140 crore Indians come together for fitness, no obstacle can stop us, and no one can hold us back. It will ensure that the nation will certainly move forward.”

The event was flagged off in the presence of several dignitaries, including Hon’ble Lieutenant Governor Shri Vinai Kumar Saxena, Union Sports Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, and Chief of Defence Staff Gen Anil Chauhan, alongside top officers from the Army, Navy, and Air Force. In a proud first, all three Defence Forces fielded senior officers as participants, led by Air Chief Marshal Amar Preet Singh, Lt Gen Rahul R Singh, and Vice Admiral L.S. Pathania. Jammu & Kashmir Chief Minister Shri Omar Abdullah also ran the Half Marathon, with his sons joining the 10K.

Olympic legend Carl Lewis, the International Event Ambassador, cheered from the sidelines. He was joined by Olympic bronze medallist and PUMA Ambassador Sarabjot Singh and Commonwealth Games medallist Tejasvin Shankar, adding a touch of star power to the occasion.

“It’s amazing to witness the energy and athleticism here at the Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon. As a sprinter, I’m always in awe of how fast these athletes can run for so long — it’s just incredible. The men and women out there today were phenomenal; the women are running times that the men used to clock not too long ago. It just shows how far the sport has come,” said Carl Lewis, the International Event Ambassador.

Kenyans stamped their authority once again in the elite field. Alex Matata won the men’s race in 59:50, while Lilian Kasait Rengeruk took the women’s crown with a time of 1:07:20. Among Indians, Abhishek Pal clinched his third VDHM title in 1:04:17, and Seema triumphed in the women’s race, clocking 1:11:23.

Behind the scenes, the seamless organisation was ensured by 200 volunteers, 400 healthcare providers, Delhi Police, DMRC, and NDMC. The Delhi Government extended full logistical support as an official partner.

As the sun rose over the capital, the streets pulsed with music, cheers, and the steady rhythm of thousands of footsteps – a celebration of fitness, togetherness, and Delhi’s undying zest for life.