After electrifying the streets of Bengaluru, Hyderabad, and Chennai, Network18’s premier community sports property, Nammude Run, is set to take over Kochi on February 1st, 2026. Dedicated to the Fit India Movement, the event lands in Kerala as much more than a marathon; it is an active-lifestyle catalyst aimed at shifting the cultural needle toward fitness and wellness.
The journey so far has been explosive, uniting over 10,000 runners and 5,000 families across three major cities. As it arrives in the Queen of the Arabian Sea, Nammude Run stands as a powerful testament to the network’s ability to merge massive public health initiatives with world-class sporting execution.
A Legacy of Health: The Fight for a Drug-Free Kerala
The Kochi edition carries forward the incredible momentum of News18 Kerala’s recent state-wide anti-drug awareness initiative, AD 2025. This run is the physical heartbeat of that mission, advocating for family health and a resilient, drug-free community. By championing “Fitness as a Priority,” the event transforms the fight against substance abuse into a high-energy celebration of grit and wellness, fostering a culture where sports take center stage.
A High-Profile Endorsement in the State Capital
The health-first focus of the Kochi leg was solidified in Trivandrum, where Shri Pinarayi Vijayan, the Honorable Chief Minister of Kerala, officially unveiled the Kochi Marathon T-shirt. This high-profile endorsement cements the event as a top-tier fixture in the state’s social and wellness calendar, emphasizing the network’s commitment to driving nationwide health awareness.
An Immersive Brand Ecosystem: The Perfect Day Out
For partners and stakeholders, Nammude Run Kochi offers a sophisticated, high-intent arena. It provides an unparalleled gateway to connect with a massive, diverse demographic – from trend-setting Gen Z and high-achieving professionals to active families and seniors – all within a vibrant, interactive setting.
Designed as a perfect day out, the event architecture pulses with energy far beyond the finish line. While competitive athletes tackle the timed 10K and 5K tracks, the carnival atmosphere keeps the spirit high with:
• Inclusive Categories: Specialized Fun Runs, a dedicated Parents & Grandparents Run, and high-spirit Kids’ Runs (1K, 2K, 3K).
• Pure Energy: Pulse-pounding Zumba sessions and live cultural performances that turn the venue into a stadium of joy.
• The Ultimate Kids Zone: A high-engagement hub featuring trampolines, live portrait sketching, and face painting, ensuring every child leaves with a story.
A Prestigious Network of Partners
The scale of this initiative is supported by a robust roster of industry-leading partners. Headlined by Title Sponsor Pittapillil Agencies and Powered by Reliance Industries. The marathon features a robust portfolio of category partners: Decathlon (Sports Partner), Volini (Recovery Partner), Maharani Wedding Collection (Textile Partner), Associate Sponsors: DEMAC, Amrut Veni, Rajakumari, Jain University and RED FM (Radio Partner)
The Final Sprint: Durbar Hall Ground
As the circuit descends upon the Durbar Hall Ground, it marks the culmination of a journey that has redefined community engagement.
“Nammude Run has evolved into a powerful catalyst for active living and social awareness,” the network stated. “We aren’t just hosting a race in Kochi; we are igniting a culture of wellness and a drug-free future that will resonate long after the final runner crosses the line”.