Miles for Meals: Mary Kom, Mahesh Bhupathi Back Run For Zero Hunger
Sporting icons Mary Kom, Pramod Bhagat, and Mahesh Bhupathi back Vedanta's #RunForZeroHunger at the Delhi Half Marathon to fight malnutrition.
As the capital gears up for the 21st edition of the Delhi Half Marathon (DHM) this Sunday, October 18, the event has evolved into more than just a test of athletic endurance. Sporting legends Mary Kom, Pramod Bhagat, and Mahesh Bhupathi have thrown their weight behind the Run For Zero Hunger initiative by Vedanta, urging thousands of participants to transform their physical effort into a lifeline for those in need.
Turning Kilometres into Contributions
The #RunForZeroHunger campaign introduces a powerful incentive for runners: every single kilometre completed translates into one meal for a child or an animal. This initiative, led by title sponsor Vedanta, bridges the gap between sporting ambition and social responsibility, ensuring that the energy spent on the track has a tangible impact on the ground.
The contributions are channeled through two primary avenues:
- Nand Ghar: Vedanta’s flagship social project that transforms rural anganwadis into hubs for healthcare, nutrition, and early childhood education.
- The Animal Care Organisation (TACO): An extension of compassion that ensures the well-being of animals in need.
Icons of Sport Lead the Charge
The involvement of three distinct sporting icons brings a diverse message of resilience and inclusivity to the campaign.
Mary Kom: The Power of Perseverance
The six-time World Champion and Olympic medallist, Mary Kom, has called on runners to make every kilometre matter. Her association with the cause highlights how individual determination and perseverance can drive collective social change.
Pramod Bhagat: Resilience and Inclusion
Paralympic gold medallist and six-time World Champion Pramod Bhagat is encouraging participants of all abilities to convert their miles into meals. His presence underscores the values of inclusion, reminding runners that the fight against hunger is a shared human responsibility.
Mahesh Bhupathi: Every Step Counts
Former World No. 1 and 12-time Grand Slam winner Mahesh Bhupathi has urged people to get moving, regardless of their pace. Whether participants choose to walk, jog, or run, Bhupathi emphasizes that everyday participation can lead to a meaningful impact.
More Than Just a Race
The Delhi Half Marathon is set to be a massive gathering of elite international athletes, Indian stars, and amateur runners. The event features various categories to ensure everyone can participate, including:
- The flagship Half Marathon (21.097 km)
- Half Marathon Elite
- Champions with Disability and Senior Citizens Run
- Open 10K
- Great Delhi Run
A Legacy of Impact: The Nand Ghar Project
The #RunForZeroHunger initiative is rooted in the broader vision of the Nand Ghar project. Developed in collaboration with the Ministry of Women and Child Development, this project has already seen over 15,000 operational centres across 18 states. Beyond providing nutrition and healthcare to children, these centres empower women through skill development and entrepreneurship opportunities, creating a sustainable ecosystem for rural communities.
By linking the adrenaline of one of India's premier running events with the goal of a hunger-free future, Vedanta aims to ensure that the spirit of the marathon lasts long after the finish line is crossed.