Mangalore: A cross country running of Monsoon Marathon even in rains, has received colossal response at the Bhootnatheshwar Temple, Badaga, Eda Padavu, Mijar here,in Mangalore taluk, where earlier Rural sports and Games had been received in Feb 2011.
The underlying idea was to promote physical health and communal harmony in the region. The aim was to appreciate rural living in a clean atmosphere, and admire the nature in all its expressions of beauty.
The Marathan has attracted large number of players, dignitaries, and participants, besides film stars Pooja Gandhi and Neethu, apart from Shivadwaj Shetty.
MLA Abhaychandra Jain, Mudabidri’s Dr.Mohan Alva, Rajesh Naik Ulippady of Oddor Forms, Srikar Prabhu, BJP chief of Mangalore city, Anil Shibad, Solar consultant from New Jersey, USA, Dr.Bhagwandas Shetty of Mangalore, and Dr,Shouri Rai of Uppinangady, were present at th venue.
Hockey Star(Khel Ratna) Dhanraj Pillai hoisted the national flag at the Temple premises, before Marathon could take off, as it was Aug,15(65th Independence Day). Pillay was overwhelmed with the honour and praised the organisers for receiving rural games and youthful runs, but requested them to arrange a Hockey Tournament as well, which was dear to his heart, on the lines of Kodagu families Hockey Cup. MLA Jain was MLA Jain was impressed by ‘Unity’ as the theme of Marathon, lauded Vijaynath Shetty’s efforts.
Pooja Gandhi song ‘Olave Jeevana’ from box office hit ‘Mungaru Male’ to the cheers of audience.
The Marathon is expected to promote hygiene and health as rural motives of life in harmony.