PNB and Fitistan Lead PNB Soldierathon Delhi 2026 to a Landmark Finish, Emerging as India’s Fourth-Largest Run

The expo brought together brand activations, cultural showcases, and community interactions — creating a vibrant space where people connected with fitness, with each other, and with the cause. Participants were also encouraged to engage with the Fitistan app ecosystem, which provided guidance, tracking, and motivation throughout their fitness journey. On race day, participants experienced interactive fitness and wellness zones, community engagement activities and digital integrations, while interacting with wounded and paraplegic soldiers and visiting SENA stalls managed by soldiers’ families. All these elements came together to deliver a truly immersive and impactful experience. 

Alongside the on-ground event, PNB MD & CEO Shri Ashok Chandra launched the Virtual PNB Soldierathon on the Fitistan app, which has already crossed 66,000 registrations. The challenge will continue until April 11 and is expected to surpass 1 lakh participants. Through this activation, PNB and Fitistan are aiming to set a world record for the highest cumulative distance covered in a virtual run. Shri Ashok Chandra also expressed confidence and pride in the initiative, sharing his vision of making PNB Soldierathon one of India’s most impactful and prestigious runs in the coming years. Beyond participation, the event created meaningful impact through Fitistan’s SENA initiative, where a portion of proceeds is directed towards the rehabilitation and welfare of wounded and injured soldiers. Soldierathon Patron Hon’ble Governor General V.K. Singh applauded the strong partnership between Punjab National Bank and Soldierathon while commending Shri Ashok Chandra’s vision.

Shilpa Bhagat, Co-founder, Fitistan, said, “The Soldierathon initiative is deeply personal to me. Fitness has always been an integral part of my life, but over time, it evolved into a way to build resilience, discipline, and purpose. With Fitistan, my vision has always been to make fitness more inclusive and meaningful. Soldierathon perfectly aligns with that vision — where fitness is not just about performance, but about impact. Being part of something that combines wellness, community and purpose is truly fulfilling.”

Soldierathon was originally envisioned by Major Surendra Poonia (VSM) under the guidance of former President Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, who believed that fitness could be a powerful medium to connect the nation with its soldiers. Beyond aligning with Fitistan’s mission of combining fitness with purpose, PNB Soldierathon offers civilians a rare and valuable opportunity to interact with the armed forces: by running alongside soldiers, engaging with them, and witnessing their discipline firsthand, participants develop a deeper sense of respect, gratitude, and connection. Major Poonia lauded every runner, NCC cadet, member of the Indian Armed Forces, PNB leadership and the entire PNB Soldierathon team for delivering an event that strengthens the Fit India Movement and raises awareness about wounded and paraplegic soldiers.

PNB Soldierathon 2026 is more than just a race; it is a movement. By combining fitness with patriotism and social impact, it is building a strong foundation for responsible, aware citizens. This landmark partnership between Punjab National Bank and Fitistan – Ek Fit Bharat is not just creating a fitter India but also a stronger, more united and deeply patriotic nation.