Dombivlikar Friendship Run returns on November 29, aims for 10,000 runners

The third season of the Dombivlikar Friendship Run 2026 will be held in Dombivli on November 29, 2026. The run carries a message of health, friendship and unity. This year's theme is "Celebration of the City of Dombivli", and the organisers have stepped up preparations.

On the occasion of Durgashtami, the theme T-shirt and medal of the run were unveiled by Ravindra Chavan, BJP Maharashtra state president and Dombivli MLA. The event was held at the venue of "Namo Ramo Navratri".

The run is organised by Kalyan Dombivli Runners (KDR) with the support of "Dombivlikar Ek Sanskrutik Parivar". The aim is to bring the people of the city together, give runners from across the state a platform and promote health, friendship and brotherhood through running. Ravindra Sakpal of Kalyan Dombivli Runners said the "Celebration of the City of Dombivli" theme this year will showcase Dombivli's rich cultural heritage, love of the arts and sport, and awareness about health.

Runners from across Maharashtra, along with Kalyan-Dombivli, have responded well to the run. About 6,000 runners took part in each of the previous two seasons. This time the organisers are trying to take the number to 10,000.

Suraj Shetty said on behalf of Kalyan Dombivli Runners that five categories have been kept so that people of every age can take part. Along with professional runners, fitness enthusiasts, families and children can also run. The timed run will have 21.1 km, 10 km and 5 km races, while the fun run will have 5 km and 1.6 km races. Prizes worth about Rs 3 lakh have been kept for the winners of the timed run.

According to Ravindra Sakpal, the 1.6 km fun run for children aged 8 to 16 is completely free. The decision was taken so that children develop a liking for outdoor sport and exercise from a young age, and learn the value of discipline, confidence and fitness. The organisers have appealed to as many children and families as possible to join. Age-wise prize amounts and full details will be available on the official website and Instagram page.

The run will be recognised by the Thane District Athletic Association. Every registered runner will get a dry-fit T-shirt, a finisher medal, water facilities and breakfast. Runners in the timed run will also get a timing chip and a qualification certificate. Participants will get a participation certificate and their photographs free of charge, so that everyone can keep memories of their participation and achievement. The organisers will take special care to ensure runners have a safe and well-managed experience. The route of the run will be announced soon. Suraj Shetty gave this information.

Runners who wish to take part must register by October 31, 2026. Ravindra Sakpal has appealed to experienced and new runners, children, parents and senior citizens from across Maharashtra, including Thane district, to turn up in large numbers. Registration is on the official website, www.dombivlikarfriendshiprun.com.

MLA Ravindra Chavan said the Dombivlikar Friendship Run is not merely a running competition but a celebration that brings the people of the city together. This year, along with fitness and friendship, there will also be a fine blend of Dombivli's culture. He appealed to people to turn up in large numbers to cheer the runners and celebrate the unity of Dombivli.