New Delhi, India — A powerful blend of patriotism, pride, and fitness marked the Sekhon Indian Air Force Marathon 2025, held across several cities in India on Sunday. From Delhi to Gandhinagar and Jodhpur to Agra, thousands of citizens joined hands with the Indian Air Force to honor Param Vir Chakra recipient Flying Officer Nirmal Jit Singh Sekhon, India’s only Air Force officer to have received the nation’s highest military award for valor.
In New Delhi, the marathon kicked off from the iconic Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, where Air Chief Marshal A.P. Singh flagged off both the 10-kilometer and 5-kilometer runs, marking the beginning of a day dedicated to unity, courage, and health awareness.
Air Chief Marshal A.P. Singh Leads the Tribute
Addressing participants, Air Chief Marshal A.P. Singh expressed heartfelt gratitude toward citizens who came together to pay homage to Flying Officer Nirmal Jit Singh Sekhon.
“We are here today to celebrate the indomitable spirit of a true hero,” Singh said. “Flying Officer Sekhon remains our eternal inspiration, and through this marathon, we pledge to honor his bravery every year.”
He further confirmed that the Sekhon Indian Air Force Marathon will now be organized annually to remind the nation of Sekhon’s extraordinary courage and sacrifice during the 1971 Indo-Pak war.
Bollywood Celebrities Join the Celebration
The Delhi event turned into a star-studded morning as Sunil Grover, Archana Puran Singh, Shefali Shah, and Huma Qureshi joined the Indian Air Force leadership to flag off the marathon. Their presence added excitement and encouragement for thousands of runners who turned up before sunrise to participate.
Actress Archana Puran Singh called the moment deeply inspiring.
“The Indian Air Force is the pride of our nation,” she said. “Today, we didn’t inspire the runners — they inspired us with their energy, discipline, and love for the country.”
Actress Shefali Shah echoed this sentiment, describing the marathon as a reminder of the peace and safety ensured by India’s armed forces.
“It’s an honor to be here,” she said. “We sleep peacefully because our Air Force protects us day and night. Events like the Sekhon Indian Air Force Marathon 2025 make us feel connected to that courage.”
Meanwhile, actress Huma Qureshi expressed her admiration for the Air Force’s initiative.
“This is not just a fitness event; it’s an act of national pride. Every Indian should feel proud to participate,” she said.
Comedian and actor Sunil Grover, visibly moved by the enthusiasm of the crowd, shared,
“Being a part of the Sekhon Indian Air Force Marathon 2025 fills me with pride. Meeting the participants and seeing such unity is truly special.”
The Spirit of Patriotism Echoes Beyond Delhi
The wave of enthusiasm was not limited to the capital. Across India, cities witnessed extraordinary public participation in tribute to Flying Officer Sekhon.
In Gandhinagar, Gujarat, Air Force officials, fitness enthusiasts, and local citizens joined the marathon early in the morning. Wing Commander P.S. Rathore, who oversaw the event, said the day was about remembrance and respect.
“Today’s marathon is a heartfelt tribute to Flying Officer Nirmal Jit Singh Sekhon,” Rathore said. “He remains the Indian Air Force’s only Param Vir Chakra awardee, and this event ensures his heroism continues to inspire generations.”
In Jodhpur, Rajasthan, the marathon saw participation from senior administrative and police officials, including District Collector Gaurav Agrawal and Police Commissioner Om Prakash Paswan, who both commended the Air Force for organizing such a powerful event.
Commissioner Paswan emphasized the broader impact of such initiatives.
“The Air Force Marathon is more than just a run — it’s a celebration of discipline, dedication, and patriotism. Events like these unite citizens with our armed forces, spreading motivation to stay fit and committed to one’s duty.”
From Fitness to National Pride: The Marathon’s Deeper Meaning
The Sekhon Indian Air Force Marathon 2025 was not just a sporting event; it was a living tribute to a man whose bravery remains etched in India’s military history. Flying Officer Nirmal Jit Singh Sekhon displayed unmatched valor during the 1971 Indo-Pak War, taking on enemy aircraft despite overwhelming odds and ultimately sacrificing his life for the nation.
By naming the marathon after him, the Indian Air Force aims to inspire young Indians to embody the same courage and commitment. The event beautifully blends fitness with patriotism, urging citizens to stay healthy while remembering the sacrifices of the armed forces.
The initiative also reinforces the message of “Fit India, Strong India,” aligning with the government’s national health and wellness mission.
Crowd Turnout and Enthusiasm Across India
Organizers reported a massive turnout across multiple states, with participation numbers surpassing expectations. From professional athletes and defense personnel to school students and senior citizens, every category of citizen joined in. The marathon saw family participation, with parents running alongside children, symbolizing unity across generations.
In Delhi alone, thousands gathered before dawn, waving the tricolor and chanting patriotic slogans. Social media was flooded with images of runners wearing T-shirts featuring Flying Officer Sekhon’s image and the words “Run for the Nation, Fly with the Force.”
Participants described the marathon as emotional and empowering. “Running under the banner of the Indian Air Force gives you a sense of belonging,” said a Delhi-based runner. “It reminds us that freedom comes with sacrifice — and fitness is our way of honoring it.”
A Growing National Movement
Since its inception, the Sekhon Marathon has become a national movement, spreading awareness about both military valor and personal wellness. This year’s event expanded its reach with digital engagement — allowing participants across cities to register online, share their fitness progress, and even run virtual marathons in remote areas.
The Sekhon Indian Air Force Marathon 2025 thus became not only a physical event but a digital celebration of collective spirit and national pride.
Organizers confirmed plans to expand the marathon to more cities in 2026, ensuring every state has the opportunity to host an edition of this patriotic fitness initiative.
Why the Marathon Matters
Events like the Sekhon Indian Air Force Marathon 2025 highlight how national pride and fitness can coexist harmoniously. In a time when lifestyle diseases are on the rise and fitness awareness remains a challenge, the Air Force’s effort to promote a healthier, stronger India carries deep significance.
The marathon also fosters a sense of community, encouraging citizens to step out of their comfort zones, support the armed forces, and embrace an active lifestyle.
As Air Chief Marshal Singh aptly concluded,
“This marathon is not just about running; it’s about running for a purpose — the purpose of honoring our heroes, remembering our roots, and strengthening the nation together.”
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Event Highlights Table
| Event Name | Sekhon Indian Air Force Marathon 2025 |
|---|---|
| Purpose | To honor Param Vir Chakra recipient Flying Officer Nirmal Jit Singh Sekhon |
| Organizer | Indian Air Force |
| Main Venue | Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, New Delhi |
| Other Locations | Gandhinagar, Jodhpur, Agra, and several other Indian cities |
| Chief Guest | Air Chief Marshal A.P. Singh |
| Celebrity Guests | Sunil Grover, Archana Puran Singh, Shefali Shah, Huma Qureshi |
| Categories | 5 km and 10 km runs |
| Key Theme | Patriotism through fitness |
| Annual Tradition | Yes, to be held every year in tribute to Flying Officer Sekhon |
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Conclusion
The Sekhon Indian Air Force Marathon 2025 stands as a remarkable example of how a nation can blend physical fitness with heartfelt patriotism. What began as a tribute to a legendary hero has evolved into a people’s movement — one that celebrates courage, endurance, and unity.
With expanding participation, celebrity involvement, and strong digital engagement, the marathon not only commemorates a war hero but also ignites a spirit of health, discipline, and national pride that resonates far beyond India’s borders.
As thousands of runners crossed the finish line, one message echoed across the country:
“Run for the nation. Fly with the force.”
