Tata Steel Kolkata Ananda Run 2025

The Tata Steel World 25K Kolkata is one of the most prestigious road races in India, and this year, I finally had the opportunity to experience its unique energy firsthand.

I registered for the Ananda Run (4.5K) – a decision I later questioned, as the atmosphere of the event made me wish I had opted for the 10K instead. Being an international-level race, the registration process was more structured than usual. It involved submitting valid ID proof, undergoing verification, and waiting for confirmation before the registration was finalized. The race was scheduled for 21st December 2025, and from the very beginning, the scale of the event was evident.

BIB Expo Experience

The BIB Expo was held on 19–20 December at Netaji Indoor Stadium. I visited on the 19th – this time riding my electric scooter instead of taking a cab. It felt good to arrive in my own vehicle and soak in the experience at a relaxed pace. Parking was smooth, and the overall arrangements were well managed.

Along with collecting my BIB, I received the event’s signature sleek black backpack filled with goodies. Unlike many other races, the official T-shirt was not included, so I purchased one from a stall inside the expo. The venue itself felt vibrant and energetic, with multiple stalls, activities, and interactions happening simultaneously. A special highlight was spotting Joshua Cheptegei, Uganda’s two-time Olympic champion, who was present at the expo – an inspiring moment for any running enthusiast.

Race Day: The Festive Run Begins

Race day arrived on 21st December 2025. The event was hosted along the iconic Red Road, adding historical charm to the race atmosphere. The Ananda Run was scheduled to start at 9:00 AM, while the 25K and 10K races began earlier.

I woke up at 6:00 AM, started the day with some warm water, and prepared myself mentally and physically. By 7:15 AM, I left home. Due to road closures, my cab dropped me about a kilometer away from the venue, and I walked the remaining distance. As I approached the start area, the scale of the event became overwhelming – in the best possible way. Thousands of runners had gathered, and the energy was electric.

Running Through a Festival

Unlike the longer races, the Ananda Run had no wave segregation – all participants started together. As the clock struck 9:00 AM, thousands of runners moved forward at once. Adding to the excitement, Kenny Bednarek and Indian football legend Bhaichung Bhutia were present at the start line, waving to participants and cheering them on – an inspiring sight that elevated the energy of the run even further. Drums, dhak beats, music, and cheers filled the air. VIPs and spectators lined the route, waving and encouraging runners. Participants ranged across age groups and fitness levels, creating a truly inclusive and vibrant environment.

I was already dealing with shin pain in my left leg before the run, but I decided to continue at an easy pace, focusing more on the experience than performance. As the run progressed, the pain increased, but so did the magic around me.

Every few meters offered something new – live music, bhangra performances, cheerleaders, balancing acts, and creative installations. It felt less like a race and more like a moving carnival. Hydration points were well placed, and the constant engagement made the 4.5 km distance feel surprisingly short.

Finish Line & Reflections

Before I knew it, I crossed the finish line. I received a beautifully designed medal and breakfast served in a cotton bag. Post-run celebrations were in full swing, with music and dancing everywhere. Even though I’m not much of a party person, the infectious energy made it impossible not to smile.

By then, my shin pain had worsened, making walking difficult. I initially considered taking the metro back home, but eventually decided to book an Uber instead. Despite the discomfort, the overall experience was deeply satisfying.

Final Thoughts

The Tata Steel World 25K Kolkata is not just a race – it’s an experience. From meticulous organization and international presence to a festival-like running route, everything comes together to create something truly special. Even with injury and a shorter distance, I walked away with unforgettable memories.

Next time, I’ll be better prepared, and I’ll definitely aim for a longer distance.