War-Wounded Veterans to Run at Adani Ahmedabad Marathon
War-Wounded Veterans Prepare to Run at Ahmedabad Marathon
Four former soldiers injured during military service will join the November 29 race, sharing their experiences of recovery and life after combat injuries.
When four former soldiers take their places at the Adani Ahmedabad Marathon on 29 November, each will have a different story of injury, recovery and life after military service. All four have been injured while serving in the armed forces. They now plan to run with the War Wounded Foundation (WWF), which will field a contingent at the event for the first time. 
The veterans, Naik Ashok Kumar, Subedar Satbir Singh Chauhan, Ex Sepoy Rajesh Kumar and Ex Cfn Naresh Kumar, have faced lasting effects of their injuries. Their participation comes as the marathon marks its 10th edition, with the #Run4OurSoldiers initiative directing a share of registration proceeds towards the welfare of India’s armed forces.
The race, organised by Adani Sportsline, is scheduled for 29 November 2026. More than 24,000 people took part in the previous edition, according to the organisers. The event has drawn civilian runners and defence personnel to the streets of Ahmedabad since it began in 2017.
For the four veterans, the upcoming race carries a personal meaning shaped by years of treatment, rehabilitation and adjustment.
Ashok Kumar, who served with 14 Mahar, joined the Army on 30 April 1994. He spent 20 years in uniform. On 11 October 2002, during Operation Parakram at the Line of Control in the Batalik Sector of Jammu and Kashmir, enemy mortar fire struck both his legs and his left knee. He was classified as a battle casualty.
Treatment at Delhi’s Research and Referral Hospital and the Artificial Limb Centre in Pune helped him walk again. His recovery continued beyond the hospital. Weight gain and mental health difficulties became further problems to deal with.
Ashok responded with a strict diet and regular exercise. He later became a social worker and volunteer with the War Wounded Foundation, and began taking part in marathons.
“After the injury, I thought the hard part would be learning to walk again. It was actually what came after: the weight, the difficulties I faced mentally, and the biggest question being what to do with myself,” he said.
“The Foundation gave me a direction. Hearing from other wounded soldiers who had been through the same thing, I understood that you can convert disability into ability. I want every member of the crowd to go home with one message: that a person should never lose hope. I am very proud to run at the Adani Ahmedabad Marathon for our soldiers.”
For Subedar Satbir Singh Chauhan, the injury came on 22 August 2005, while he was serving with 19 Rajput. He suffered fractures and nerve damage and was classified as a battle casualty with 100% disability for life.
His physical condition changed sharply, but he continued to identify himself as a soldier. He now takes part in marathons and adventure activities.
“The injury changed my body in one day, but it did not change who I am,” he said.
“After joining the WWF, I found people who understood me without having to explain anything. That is where I learned that a soldier does not stop being a soldier. After fifteen years with this brotherhood, standing on the starting line at the prestigious Adani Ahmedabad Marathon with all of them will be a very special moment for me. I want people to see that resilience has no limits.”
Rajesh Kumar enlisted in the 6 Rajput Regiment in May 1999. On 6 April 2001, during Operation Rakshak in the Poonch area of Jammu and Kashmir, an accidental anti-personnel mine blast took one of his legs.
He remained in uniform for 26 years, retiring in May 2025. Running came later, through community events where he and fellow veterans covered four to five kilometres. The medals they won helped build their confidence. His children also encouraged him at home.
“Those first medals meant more to me than people might imagine,” he said.
“We were a group of veterans walking together, and every one of us came back feeling a little braver. My children cheer for me at home, and that is the best motivation I could ask for. For me, Adani Ahmedabad Marathon’s ‘Run For Our Soldier’ initiative is the heartbeat of the race. I want the young and aspiring soldiers to see a man who lost a leg and is still ready to give everything for the nation.”
Naresh Kumar, an ex-craftsman in the Army, suffered serious blast injuries in August 1999 that affected his hearing. Adjusting to life after the injury brought its own difficulties. Counselling, support from other wounded soldiers and regular contact with the Foundation helped him find ways to remain active.
Running has since become part of his routine. He has taken part in several marathons and continues to spend time with his family and grandson, whom he calls his best friend.
“An injury can change your circumstances, but it does not have to stop you from moving forward,” he said.
“Running keeps me active and keeps my spirits up. I have done several marathons, and what I enjoy most is meeting other runners and sharing a bit of positivity along the way. When I am not running, I am usually with my grandson, who is my best friend. Running at the Adani Ahmedabad Marathon is another chance to do what I love, and I am looking forward to it.”
The War Wounded Foundation was incorporated in August 2002. Its stated aim is to help injured military personnel from the Army, Navy and Air Force lead independent and productive lives. Its work includes skills training and support for disabled veterans seeking employment or business opportunities.
The marathon’s #Run4OurSoldiers initiative brings the welfare of armed forces personnel into a public sporting event. More than 3,000 defence personnel took part in last year’s race, according to the supplied event information.
On 29 November, the four veterans will join runners on the Ahmedabad course. Their participation will place their experiences of military service and recovery before a wider public, while the race continues its annual support for serving and former members of the armed forces.
