Bengaluru, March 12, 2025: The 14th edition of Kanyathon #RunForHer, powered by Big Basket, concluded today with resounding success, with over 13,000 participants across Bangalore and Karjat editions running for the cause of women’s empowerment and educating the girl child. Organized jointly by IFIM Institutions, JAGSoM, and Vijaybhoomi University, this year’s student-driven annual charity run was another successful edition. The event was held on the 2nd of March, 2025, simultaneously at Infosys Leisure Ground in Bangalore and Vijaybhoomi University in Karjat, Mumbai.
Kanyathon, with its overarching goal of positively impacting women’s health and education, has made significant strides over the years, reaching out to over 300,000 girls with various initiatives. Through its Shiksha Kendras in Kolar, Electronic City, and Jambrung, essential skills like English-speaking and digital literacy are imparted, alongside providing scholarships to deserving girls, including those from economically weaker sections and the daughters of sex workers. The commitment to education extends further with college scholarships for meritorious girls identified from Kanyathon Shiksha Kendra (KSK) villages.
The event was flagged off by Youngest Olympian Swimmer, Ms. Dhinidhi Desinghu, who was the Chief guest for the event, Guest of Honors-Mr. Sujoy Jana-Business Head, South India BigBasket and Arjuna Awardee and Olympian Swimmer Mr. Sajan Prakash and Mrs. Kalpana Padode, Secretary CDE. The event in Bangalore and Karjat, Mumbai, witnessed an incredible turnout of 13,000 participants, ranging from young children to the elderly. The overwhelming participation reflected the event’s widespread appeal and the community’s shared commitment to fitness and social causes.
Participants engaged in various activities including the 10km Pro, 5km Pro, 5km Fun Run, 3km Family Run, and 3km Fun Walk, along with E-gaming events. Several corporates and organizations came together to support the cause, including Infosys, Wipro, Biocon, Sagility, Timken, HPE, Momentive, Tessolve, Hical Technologies, Brillio, the Army Hospital, CMP, MEG, CISF, and NSS. Additionally, Electronic City residents, students, faculty members, and professional runners actively participated, further strengthening the event’s impact.
Generous contributions by donors ensured that Kanyathon 2025 was able to give away cash prizes totaling Rs. 2 lakh to pro runners and distributed BigBasket gift cards as well as vouchers and goodies from Yogabar, Wrangler, 46 Ounces and Unibic valued at over Rs. 3 lakh. All the participants received T-shirts and medals. Sponsors such as Bigbasket, Cycleworld, Baron Electronics provided innovative prizes including cycles, electronic goods and smart watches while others like – JIVAA (Jagsom, IFIM, Vijaybhoomi Alumni Association), ELCIA Trust, Stuffs of Idli, Sodexo, showed unwavering support for this noble cause.
Speaking about the event, Kalpana Padode, Secretary CDE, expressed “Kanyathon is a student-led initiative dedicated to empowering the girl child through education, health and hygiene. By focusing on rural girls and daughters of sex workers, we are creating lasting change and promoting equality. Every donation fuels this movement, building a brighter and more inclusive future for our daughters.”
“This year’s event has not only raised crucial funds but also raised awareness about the importance of investing in the education and well-being of our sisters and daughters. Kanyathon is a movement that celebrates the resilience and potential of women, and we are proud to be at the forefront of driving this change.” said Mr. Sanjay Padode, President, Vijaybhoomi University & Chairman, IFIM Institutions
The proceeds from the charity run will go towards improving the quality of life of disadvantaged women and girls, which emphasizes the social impact that Kanyathon strives to make.
The event’s global recognition, including the esteemed ‘Prestigious Innovations that Inspire’ Award from AACSB in 2021, underscores its significance in driving positive change. Kanyathon was ranked #1 for its incredible social Impact and engagement during the prestigious Social Impact Awards (SIA) and PRME Chapter India event on December 5th, 2024.