Bhubaneswar, 08 March (H.S.) : In a remarkable celebration of strength, resilience, and solidarity, hundreds of women took to the streets of Bhubaneswar today for the International Women’s Day Marathon at Kalinga Stadium, marking the grand finale of a three-day state-wide festival (6–8 March) dedicated to women’s health, safety, and leadership. The event was officially flagged off by Surama Padhy, Speaker of the Odisha Legislative Assembly, who addressed the gathering of female athletes, students, and professionals, emphasizing that a woman’s physical agency is a key driver of social change. “The spirit and determination shown by these young women today is a testament to our collective future,” Padhy stated. “When a woman prioritizes her fitness and health, she builds the foundation for a stronger, more equitable society.”

The marathon showcased Odisha’s emerging talent in sports, with Diptirani Sahoo from Tigiria Physical Education College securing first position through unmatched endurance and pace, Sunita Santa from Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences (KISS) finishing second with remarkable grit and athletic skill, and Mamina Murmu from Maharshi College of Natural Law claiming third place with a strong final kick. The three-day festival was designed as a holistic journey to empower women: Day 1 focused on mindfulness with mass yoga sessions across districts to promote mental and physical well-being, Day 2 offered intensive self-defense workshops to equip young women with practical skills and confidence for personal safety, and Day 3 culminated in the marathon under the inspiring banner, “Her Progress is the Nation’s Progress.”

Also present at the event were Bhupendra Singh Poonia, Commissioner-cum-Secretary, Sports & Youth Services Department, Dr. Yeddula Vijay, IAS, Director of Sports, and other senior officials from the department. Organized by the Sports & Youth Services Department, the 2026 celebrations concluded with participants taking a collective pledge to continue breaking barriers. By prioritizing women’s health and empowerment, Odisha reinforces a culture where every girl has the opportunity and confidence to lead, marking a significant step toward gender equality and inclusive development in the state.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Monalisa Panda