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Daijiworld Media Network – Udupi (TP)

Udupi, Jul 2: Freedom Run Marathon Committee Manipal launched the fourth edition of Freedom Run 2025 under the theme ‘Stride with pride for our armed forces’ at the HO Annexe Building, Canara Bank, Manipal on July 1.

The Freedom Run Manipal is organized annually with various social themes. The first marathon focused on creating awareness against plastic use, the second edition was held against drug abuse, and the third edition highlighted women empowerment. This year, the fourth edition honours the Indian Armed Forces.

The event is sponsored by Canara Bank, Rohan Corporation, Manipal Technologies, Bajaj Allianz, Udupi Runners Club (URC), Manipal Runners Club (MRC), and other organizations.

Addressing the gathering, H K Gangadar, general manager, Circle Office Manipal, said, “Congratulations to the organising team and thanks to all sponsors. Today we are celebrating the 120th foundation day of Canara Bank which started with a humble beginning in 1906. In the same pattern Freedom Run is a successful event, growing year after year.”

Sudhakar Kottary, general manager, said, “This is my first year witnessing the Freedom Run Manipal. I have seen it in news and media in the past, and I am happy to be part of it. The number of participants is increasing every year.

H T Baviskar, general manager, said, “Today is an important day for Canara Bank. The inauguration of the marathon on this foundation day is significant. We are providing a different outlook to society and dedicate our service to the nation.”

General manager Krishna Prasad R, said, “The tag line of fourth edition is an apt tagline for this marathon. I have been witnessing this marathon for the last one year. The participation has grown in every edition from 3000 to 5000 participants we have seen last year. This year we are sure that it will exceed 7000.

Dr Naveen, said, “I congratulate the Freedom run Manipal organizing committee for organizing this event. This is a great initiative. Every year there is a new tagline, and this year’s theme resonates with the current scenario.”

The Freedom Run Manipal was formally launched by releasing balloons into the sky and unveiling the logo by the dignitaries present.

Radiologist KMC Dr Thilak chandra Pal, president of URC, MRC representative and neuro surgeon KMC Dr Girish Menon, Major Radhakrishnan, and Sachin Shetty shared their thoughts.

The event was led by senior manager Canara Bank circle office Sachin Shetty, senior manager Suraj Uppoor, senior manager Vishal Singh, manager Canara Bank circle office Manipal Durgaprasad, Siddarth Sur, Rohith, Nilesh Gaekwad and Riyas.

Vishal Singh senior manager served as the master of ceremony.

Divesh from URC, officials representing Rohan Corporation, Manipal Technologies, Bajaj Allianz, officers and staff members of Canara Bank and others were present on the occasion.

The Freedom Run Manipal will take place on August 10. All enthusiastic runners are encouraged to participate.