BANGALORE: “I remember watching a movie called To Sir, With Love and being immensely moved by the story of how a teacher in one of London’s public schools slowly turns his students into mature individuals with his caring attitude. What makes it more uplifting is the fact that it is a true story. The concept of a free school that is of good quality is not a pipe dream. But it will not materialise unless we work towards it. So this year, I will be supporting CRY’s participation in the Bangalore Marathon so that I can help create more awareness about the importance of good, quality free education. Together, we hope to convince more people that it is possible for free-of-cost schools with good teachers, classrooms, separate toilets for boys and girls, safe drinking water and a midday meal to be a reality for children in India,” says Sandalwood star Shivrajkumar. Though he won’t be running, he is one of the many who have pledged their support for the marathon that the city will witness on Sunday morning.TCS 10 K Marathon that will snake its way through the city, in its fourth edition, is an attempt to bring together the concepts of fitness, charity and fun. Apart from the professional athletes who will be taking part in the race, there are people who will be running for a cause. While snooker sensation Pankaj Advani has pledged his support for Children’s Movement for Civic Awareness, Sandalwood star Yash has shown his interest in the NGO Yuva Bengaluru. Actress Harshika Poonacha is also running for Yuva Bengaluru. Says Meena Dave from Bangalore Cares, the event’s official Charity Partner, “Eighty seven NGOs are part of the event. There are fundraising kits that we provide against a contribution of `200 each. These fundraising kits are designed to motivate and help you decide on the cause to support and raise funds.” As of now, 4,000 people have pledged their support for different NGOs. But Meena says that the numbers will pick up even after the race.Speaking about the event, Regina Thomas, regional director, CRY says, “Ensuring education for every child is one of the key challenges for our country. This run is an opportunity for each one of us to make accessibility of education a reality for all children.”The first edition of the marathon raised Rs 41 lakh. While the second year saw a steep increase to Rs 1.3 crore, last year’s run generated Rs 1.41 crore. “This year we expect Rs 1.75 crore. We have already reached Rs 1.25 crore,” informs Meena. “People, especially a lot of corporate employees are increasingly showing their affinity for lending their helping hand for charitable works,” she adds.Running can be fun too.At the ‘Kingfisher Run-in-Costume’, participants are invited to display their creativity and run for fun in colourful and imaginative costumes at the Majja Run, a six kilometre run which takes place alongside the actual 10K Marathon. Says Samar Singh Sheikhawat, senior VP marketing, United Breweries Ltd, “We are delighted to infuse the marathon with fun for all with the ‘run in costume’. We really do hope the people of Bangalore enjoy themselves and spread the cheer.” They will give away three individual prizes for the best dressed individuals and a group prize for best formations.So what is Bangalore running for? There are many reasons. But just one destination.
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