Harmony and health

However, the city was affected by the armed conflict before the promulgation of the new constitution in 2015. Sectarianism hindered regular development and peace was a much needed healing balm.

We envisaged the marathon project to lead larger society in the direction of peace. We chose 21 November as race day for what we called the Nepalgunj Peace Marathon as the date was when the Comprehensive Peace Agreement was signed.

Only two places in Nepal had previously staged a Marathon: Kathmandu and Pokhara. Nepalgunj became the third. Nepalgunj has proved itself over the last decade by introducing creative concepts such as the Nepalgunj 10km Night Run, held for the first time on 19 September 2024. The message of the night race is that Nepalgunj is decent, cultured, peaceful and supportive. This event has showcased the strength of the city.

In 2019 and 2020 the world was shaken by the Covid-19 pandemic and Nepal was equally affected. Nepal had not yet made selections for the Tokyo Olympic Marathon but a sponsor was found for holding the qualifying race in Nepalgunj when Pradeep Chhajed, CEO of KL Dugad Oil, stepped forward.

Nepalgunj was one of the few significant events that did not stop during the Covid period. The Government of Nepal gave permission for 25 male and 25 female runners to compete. They did so wearing face shields and masks even during the race.

With the race’s credentials established efforts were made to connect with the international community. Joining AIMS and becoming the first-ever Nepali member of the association was followed up at the 23rd World Congress of AIMS in Osaka by putting in a bid to host the 24th World Congress. 67 members voted in favour of Nepalgunj while 85 went to Midnight Sun Marathon in Norway.

We can fairly say that running is in the blood of our ancestors and elder generations who used to walk miles to school and back every day, uphill and downhill. Running is possible in all kinds of landscapes and it is an appropriate sport in a Nepali context. If we can make it part of our daily life it will contribute to the physical, mental and emotional health of the population. Let us participate in the Marathon every year; let us celebrate it as a festival. We strongly believe that our positive initiatives will help in the growth of our country’s health.