Bhagwant Singh Mann on Friday launched the official T-shirt for the Shaheed-e-Azam Bhagat Singh National Marathon, an upcoming sporting event aimed at encouraging youth participation in sports and raising awareness against drug abuse in Punjab.
The marathon is scheduled to be held on March 22, 2026, at Mahilpur in Hoshiarpur district, an area widely known as the “nursery of football” in the state.
Marathon Linked to Anti-Drug Campaign
Speaking on the occasion, Jai Krishan Singh Rouri said the Shaheed-e-Azam Bhagat Singh National Marathon is being organised as part of the ongoing ‘Yudh Nashian Virudh’ campaign launched by Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann.
According to Rouri, the initiative aims to motivate the youth of Punjab to stay away from drugs, promote sports culture, and help restore the vibrant spirit of “Rangla Punjab.” The marathon is expected to attract participants from across the state and serve as a platform to spread awareness about healthy lifestyles.
Tribute to Shaheed-e-Azam Bhagat Singh
The event is also being organised to pay tribute to the legendary freedom fighter Bhagat Singh ahead of his martyrdom anniversary.
Rouri noted that Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann had taken his oath of office after paying homage to the martyrs at Khatkar Kalan, the ancestral village of Bhagat Singh. Every year, a state-level function is organised there to mark the martyrdom day of the revolutionary leader.
“In the same spirit of respect and remembrance, the Shaheed-e-Azam Bhagat Singh National Marathon is being dedicated to the ideals and sacrifices of Bhagat Singh,” he said.
Encouraging Youth Towards Sports
Rouri emphasised that Bhagat Singh envisioned a strong and healthy nation where every young citizen would contribute to the progress of the country. He said encouraging youth to take up sports and eliminating the menace of drugs is essential to fulfil that vision.
The Shaheed-e-Azam Bhagat Singh National Marathon aims to channel the energy of young people toward physical fitness, discipline, and positive social engagement.
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Multiple Race Categories for Participants
Providing details about the event, Rouri said the Shaheed-e-Azam Bhagat Singh National Marathon will include several race categories to ensure participation from people of all age groups.
Participants including children, youth, senior citizens, and specially-abled individuals will compete in runs of 5 km, 10 km, 21 km, and 42 km. Winners in each category will be honoured with attractive prizes.
He also noted that the event will see active participation from schools, colleges, and universities across Punjab, making it one of the largest community sporting initiatives in the region.
Prominent Personalities to Attend Event
The marathon is expected to draw several prominent personalities who have earned recognition at national and international levels. Their presence is expected to inspire participants and further highlight the message behind the event.
Rouri said the Shaheed-e-Azam Bhagat Singh National Marathon will play a significant role in spreading the message of a drug-free Punjab and encouraging young people to adopt sports and healthier lifestyles.
He added that through such initiatives, the state government hopes to inspire communities across Punjab to work together in building a stronger, healthier, and more vibrant society.