BENGALURU — The 13th edition of the Wipro Bengaluru Marathon is scheduled for Sep. 27, 2026, with organisers expecting more than 45,000 runners across the marathon, half‑marathon and 10K categories, according to reports released on Friday.
The event, organised by Wipro Ltd. in partnership with the Bengaluru Marathon Foundation, will begin at 5 a.m. at the historic Cubbon Park grounds. Runners will follow a route that circles the city’s central business district before finishing near the park’s main gate. The marathon is positioned as a showcase of the city’s growing sports culture and a platform for community engagement.
Participation and Registration
Registration opened in early June and closed on Sep. 15. Organisers said 45,312 athletes from 32 Indian states and 12 foreign countries completed the online enrolment process. The entry fee ranged from ₹1,500 for the 10K to ₹4,500 for the full marathon, with a discounted rate for senior citizens and students.
Corporate teams, school groups and veteran runners are expected to form a large share of the field. The marathon’s official website lists more than 1,200 corporate entries, reflecting the event’s popularity among businesses seeking to promote employee wellness.
Health and Safety Measures
Authorities have confirmed that the Bengaluru City Police will deploy 1,200 officers along the course, and a medical tent will be set up at the start‑finish area. The health protocol includes mandatory temperature checks, on‑site rapid antigen testing for participants showing symptoms, and a standby ambulance at each major checkpoint.
“The police and health teams are coordinating to ensure a smooth and safe experience for all runners,” a city official said in a press advisory released on Sep. 25. The advisory also noted that traffic on major arteries such as MG Road and Residency Road will be diverted for the duration of the race.
Economic Impact
Local hotels and restaurants anticipate a surge in bookings, with the Karnataka Tourism Department estimating a direct economic contribution of roughly ₹150 million from the two‑day event. The department’s estimate includes spending on accommodation, food, transport and ancillary services.
Small‑scale vendors near the race corridor are also expected to benefit from the influx of participants and spectators. Organisers have allocated a designated vendor zone near the finish line for local artisans and food stalls.
Community and Environmental Initiatives
The marathon’s theme this year is “Resilience and Community Spirit.” Organisers highlighted a partnership with the Karnataka State Pollution Control Board to ensure waste management along the route. Recyclable water bottles and biodegradable bags will be used at hydration stations.
In addition, a “Run for a Cause” segment will allow participants to raise funds for selected NGOs working on education and health in rural Karnataka. The NGOs were chosen after a vetting process conducted by the Bengaluru Marathon Foundation.
Previous Editions
Since its inception in 2014, the Wipro Bengaluru Marathon has grown from a modest local race to one of the nation’s largest running events. The 12th edition, held in 2025, recorded 42,800 participants and featured a night run on the city’s iconic MG Road. Organisers said the 2026 edition builds on that momentum, with a larger field and expanded community programmes.
Logistics for Participants
Runners will receive race kits on Sep. 24 at the registration centre in Whitefield. The kits include a timing chip, bib number, and a reusable water bottle. Participants are advised to arrive at the start line at least 30 minutes before the gun‑time to complete the mandatory health screening.
Transportation to the start‑finish area will be facilitated by a shuttle service operating from major metro stations, including MG Road, Yeshwanthpur and Whitefield. The Bengaluru Metropolitan Transport Corporation has issued a schedule for the shuttle buses on its website.
Media Coverage
National and regional media outlets are expected to provide live coverage, with a dedicated broadcast feed on the national sports channel. The event will also be streamed on the official marathon website and on social media platforms.
As the city prepares for the race, officials emphasized that the marathon aligns with Karnataka’s broader agenda to promote active lifestyles and tourism.
