By Our Correspondent
BHUBANESWAR:In a powerful display of strength, resilience, and sisterhood, hundreds of women reclaimed the streets of Bhubaneswar today for the International Women’s Day Marathon at Kalinga Stadium. The race served as the triumphant conclusion to a three-day state-wide festival (6–8 March) dedicated to elevating women’s health, safety, and leadership.
The event was officially flagged off by Smt. Surama Padhy, Hon’ble Speaker of the Odisha Legislative Assembly. Addressing the sea of female athletes and students, Smt. Padhy emphasized that a woman’s physical agency is the ultimate catalyst for social change.
“The spirit and determination shown by these young women today is a testament to our collective future,” Smt. Padhy stated. “When a woman prioritizes her fitness and health, she builds the foundation for a stronger, more equitable society.”
The marathon highlighted the rising stars of Odisha’s sports ecosystem, with three young women delivering standout performances:Diptirani Sahoo (Tigiria Physical Education College) secured first position– Demonstrated unmatched endurance and pace.Sunita Santa (Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences – KISS) secured second position – Showcased incredible grit and athletic skill.Mamina Murmu (Maharshi College of Natural Law) – Secured third position with a strong final kick.
The marathon was the “Grand Finale” of a curated journey designed to empower the modern woman:
• Day 1 (Mindfulness): Mass Yoga sessions held across all districts, encouraging women to claim space for mental and physical peace.
• Day 2 (Strength): Intensive Self-Defense workshops aimed at equipping young women with the practical skills and confidence to navigate the world safely.
• Day 3 (Action): The Women’s Marathon, where hundreds of athletes and professionals ran under the banner: “Her Progress is the Nation’s Progress.”
Also present on this occassion was Shri Bhupendra Singh Poonia Commissioner-cum-Secretary, Sports & Youth Services Department, Dr.Yeddula Vijay, IAS, Director Sports and other senior officials of the Sports and Youth Services Department.
The 2026 celebrations, organized by the Sports & Youth Services Department, concluded with a collective pledge by participants to continue breaking barriers. By placing women’s health at the center of the agenda, Odisha continues to foster a culture where every girl is empowered to lead.
