Building a Marathon Culture in Mumbai
In the bustling heart of Mumbai, less than half a kilometre from the iconic Trident Hotel, Vivek and Anil Singh, brothers and founders of Procam International, the organisers of the Tata Mumbai Marathon, faced a moment of uncertainty. With registrations for their event closed and the possibility of cancellations looming large, the stakes were high. However, in an inspiring turn of events, not a single participant opted for a refund. Vivek, the company’s joint managing director, expressed profound gratitude, stating, “Not one person cancelled, even though we offered free refunds. The state, the police, the municipal corporation—all refused to bend.” This resilience transformed what could have been a setback into a triumphant celebration of the marathon’s enduring spirit.
The Tata Mumbai Marathon (TMM) has emerged as more than just a race; it represents a burgeoning culture of long-distance running in India. Since its inception in 2004, the marathon has dramatically changed the landscape of running in the city, inspiring countless individuals to lace up their shoes and hit the pavement. As the city faced challenges of broken roads, dust, and humidity, the marathon has become a unifying force, encouraging residents from diverse backgrounds to come together in pursuit of fitness and camaraderie.
Over two decades, the marathon’s growth has been remarkable—runners have soared from just 20,855 in its first year to a projected 65,000 in 2025. Female participation has nearly tripled, showcasing the event’s widening appeal to women, with numbers climbing from 5,851 in 2004 to 16,180 in 2025. Even in a city known for its fast pace and tight schedules, this event has drawn people together, creating a rare instance of community spirit and shared purpose. During the shorter Dream Run segment, participants paused to sing the national anthem by the Trident, illustrating the deep emotional connection fostered by the event.
Procam International, founded in 1988 and initially focused on sports and talent management, has also played a vital role in establishing the framework for sporting events in India. The brothers had faced challenges early on, from securing venues to promoting participation in a climate where sports were not widely embraced. Vivek reflected on the skepticism they faced in the late ’90s regarding the establishment of a marathon, stating, “It took six years before the first marathon event was held in 2004.” Yet, they persevered, believing that such events could ignite excitement and a sense of community.
The path to establishing a successful marathon was fraught with obstacles. During initial discussions with government officials, one of the attendees pointedly asked, “Who are you?” echoing the scepticism the brothers had to overcome. However, support from influential figures, including the local home minister at the time, eventually helped ease the bureaucratic process. This collaborative effort among various agencies enabled the TMM to materialize into a highly anticipated annual event.
As the marathon evolves, the Singh brothers remain committed to fostering a culture of health and fitness among citizens. Vivek envisions Procam as a hub for active living, stating, “We want to make people happy, provide an active lifestyle.” With aspirations to facilitate even more runners crossing the finish line, Procam aims to merge traditional events with technology, transforming into a “click and mortar company” to better serve the running community. Their investment from Florintree Advisors is envisioned to further enhance the scale and impact of these events.
For Vivek, the TMM is not just another event—it’s a testament to the perseverance and resilience of those who dare to dream. His deep engagement with wellness practices like the Art of Living has enriched his journey, both personally and professionally. As he reflects on the success of the marathon, he acknowledges that “it gets delivered by grace,” highlighting the extraordinary efforts of participants and supporters alike in making the Tata Mumbai Marathon a cherished event in the city’s calendar.
In conclusion, Procam International’s dedication to nurturing a vibrant marathon culture in Mumbai exemplifies how sports can unite and inspire communities. The transformative journey of the Tata Mumbai Marathon continues to encourage individuals to not only embrace running but also foster a spirit of togetherness and celebration through the shared experience of sport.
