Mysuru, Karnataka: Following a successful inaugural run in Salem last month that brought together over 1,400 participants, News18 Namma Run headed to the cultural capital of Karnataka. On Sunday, June 28, 2026, the movement for a healthier, drug-free India arrived in Mysuru with more than 1,600 energetic participants.
A Royal Route for a Unified Vision
Bringing the community together, the Mysuru edition featured a route steeped in heritage. Starting at 5:30 AM infront of the majestic Mysore Palace, Kote Sri Anjaneya Swamy Temple, runners passed through Jayarama Gate, Chamaraja Circle, Agrahara, and Chamrajpura.
True to the Namma Run blueprint, the event broke the mould of exclusive, hyper-competitive racing by aggregating diverse demographics. The city witnessed a ₹1,00,000 prize pool competitive race (5K and 10K timed runs) running in tandem with a 3K family walkathon, dedicated 1K and 2K kids’ runs, and a vibrant freestyle costume run.
A United Front for a Drug-Free India
Reflecting the shared vision of a “Drug-Free India” and a “Fit India,” the event was graced by Hon’ble Minister Yathindra Siddaramaiah as Chief Guest, highlighting the state’s commitment to promoting fitness and community well-being.
Crucially, the mission’s anti-drug initiative was backed by a powerful line-up of top police brass which included Boralingaiah, IPS, IGP Southern Range; Mallikarjun Baladandi, SP, Mysuru; Sundar Raj, DCP, Mysuru.
Backed by the credibility and trust of the News18 Network, this unique combination of on-ground events and regional media reach helped national and regional brands connect directly with audiences in non-metro markets in a meaningful and authentic way.
The event was powered by Sree Kumaran Jewellers and Gold Winner, and co-powered by Reliance Industries.
The breadth of industry engagement was massive: from tech disruptors like PayRupik (Digital Lending Partner) to health and academic anchors like Apollo Hospital (Health Partner) and RV University (Medal Sponsor). Sports and lifestyle brands like Decathlon (Sports Partner) and Craveman Icecream (Icecream Partner) shared the stage with FMCG and industrial heavyweights like Sparsh Masala (Masala Partner) and Sintex Welspun (Associate Sponsor), backed further by Telecom Employees and other housing welfare trust (Smart Investment Partner), Panchavati (Refreshment Partner), and GSSIETW (Associate Sponsor).
-Based on Press Release
