The event began with a deeply moving ceremony where monks from both Mahayana and Theravada traditions jointly performed chanting on stage, symbolizing unity across Buddhist Traditions. Buddhist nuns from Fo Guang Shan Temple, Bodhgaya also joined the marathon, marking a significant step toward women’s empowerment in both spiritual and athletic spheres. In addition, 55–60 monks from diverse monasteries—including Bangladesh Buddhist Monastery, The Royal Bhutan Temple, Japanese Monastery and Temple, Cambodian Buddhist Monastery, Bodhiraja Monastery, Taiwan Temple, Nepali Tamang Buddhist Monastery, Palyul Temple, The Pearl Mahavihara, Tergar Monastery, Nyingma Monlam chenmo international Foundation (Tibetan Monastery), Mahabodhi Society of India Bodhgaya, Myanmar Vihar, Vietnamese Mahayana Temple, Wat Lao, Wat Thai, Shechen Monastery, and Karma Tharjay Chokhorling Kagyupa Vajrayana Monastery —added a rich cultural and spiritual dimension to the event. A remarkable highlight was the participation of a 60-year-old woman in the 42 km full marathon category, standing as a symbol of resilience, inclusivity, and determination. Importantly, this year also marked the introduction of new and distinctive race categories for the first time, namely the Sujata Run, Niranjana Run, and Saree Run, each designed to celebrate diversity, tradition, and the spirit of inclusivity within the marathon.

The Hon’ble Sports Minister of Bihar, Ms. Shreyashi Singh, graced the occasion as Chief Guest and delivered a motivational address, emphasizing the transformative power of sports in shaping both body and mind, while felicitating runners for their dedication. The marathon was further elevated by video messages from distinguished leaders. Sh. Mansukh Mandaviya, Union Minister of Labour and Employment and Youth Affairs, connected the discipline of running with Buddha’s teaching of the middle way, underscoring how controlling the body through discipline mirrors the control of the mind. Sh. Kiren Rijiju, Union Minister of Parliamentary Affairs and Minority Affairs, reflected on the deeper impact of the marathon, noting that it strengthens not only the body but also the mind, aligning with Buddhist philosophy. Sh. Abhijit Halder, Director General of IBC, highlighted the significance of Bodhgaya as the venue, linking the marathon to Peace Walks in the United States and emphasizing how such initiatives foster unity, compassion, and wisdom.

The event was covered enthusiastically by Buddhist influencers, content creators, and media officials, ensuring that its message resonated far beyond Bodhgaya. Their engagement amplified the essence of the marathon: running not only for health but for peace, empowerment, and unity. In conclusion, the 3rd Edition of the Bodhgaya Marathon was more than a race—it was a pilgrimage of purpose. By uniting diverse traditions, nations, and individuals under the banner of peace and empowerment, the marathon reaffirmed Bodhgaya’s role as a global spiritual hub.

It demonstrated that running can be a metaphor for life’s journey, where discipline, endurance, and mindfulness converge. In the footsteps of Buddha, participants carried forward a message that transcends borders: peace begins with inner balance, and empowerment begins with collective solidarity. The Bodhgaya Marathon has thus established itself not only as an annual athletic event but as a profound movement for global harmony and human resilience.