Image Source : The Indian Express
In a remarkable display of endurance, emotion, and personal tribute, a young Indian runner has embarked on a mission to complete 100 marathons across the country—each step powered by love and memory. The initiative, titled Run for Dad, was launched earlier this year by 34-year-old Abhishek Mishra, a seasoned ultra-marathoner and fitness coach, who is dedicating the journey to his late father, whose passing in 2022 left a profound impact on his life.
The campaign is not just about athletic achievement. It is a deeply personal journey of healing, awareness, and connection. Mishra’s goal is to run 100 full marathons in 100 different cities, engaging with local communities, promoting fitness, and sharing stories of resilience and familial bonds.
Key Highlights From The Run For Dad Campaign
• Abhishek Mishra aims to complete 100 marathons across India in tribute to his late father
• The initiative began in January 2025 and is expected to conclude by mid-2026
• Mishra has completed 38 marathons so far, covering cities from Jaipur to Guwahati
• Each marathon is self-organised, with local runners and volunteers joining in
• The campaign promotes mental health, fitness, and intergenerational storytelling
A Journey Rooted In Memory
Mishra’s father, a retired government officer, was known for his discipline and quiet strength. After his passing, Mishra found solace in running—an activity they once shared during morning walks. The idea of Run for Dad emerged as a way to honour his father’s legacy while channeling grief into purpose.
Each marathon begins with a short tribute ceremony where Mishra shares anecdotes about his father and invites participants to reflect on their own family stories. The route is mapped to include local landmarks, and the finish line often features community gatherings, music, and open mic sessions.
Cities Covered And Community Impact
The campaign has already touched diverse corners of India, including:
• Jaipur, where Mishra ran alongside school children and retired army veterans
• Varanasi, where the marathon ended at the ghats with a candle-lit tribute
• Bengaluru, where tech professionals joined in to promote work-life balance
• Guwahati, where tribal youth participated and shared stories of their elders
• Pune, where Mishra collaborated with mental health NGOs for awareness drives
Local running clubs, civic bodies, and wellness groups have supported the initiative, helping with logistics, hydration stations, and medical aid. The campaign has also inspired mini-marathons and fitness challenges in schools and colleges.
Mental Health And Fitness Advocacy
Beyond the physical feat, Run for Dad is a platform for mental health dialogue. Mishra uses his social media channels and post-run gatherings to speak about grief, emotional resilience, and the importance of movement in healing.
Key advocacy themes include:
• Encouraging men to express emotions and seek support
• Promoting running as a tool for mental clarity and discipline
• Creating safe spaces for intergenerational conversations
• Highlighting the role of community in personal recovery
Mishra has partnered with therapists, yoga instructors, and grief counselors to offer resources during select marathons. Participants often share personal stories, creating a tapestry of shared healing across cities.
Looking Ahead
With 62 marathons still to go, Mishra’s journey is far from over. Upcoming runs are planned in Leh, Kochi, Bhubaneswar, and Chandigarh. He hopes to conclude the campaign in Delhi, where his father spent most of his life.
Run for Dad is more than a tribute—it is a movement that blends endurance with empathy, and personal memory with public meaning. As Mishra continues to lace up his shoes and hit the road, he carries not just his father’s legacy, but the hopes and stories of countless others who run beside him.
Sources: Times of India, Indian Express, Hindustan Times, Abhishek Mishra’s campaign updates.
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