Marking India's 80th Independence Day, Novotel Visakhapatnam Varun Beach, in collaboration with Vizag Runners, brought together Visakhapatnam's running and fitness community for a special 80 KM running challenge and Independence Day Run.

The initiative saw around 100 - 150 runners taking part, including members of Vizag Runners and team members of Novotel Visakhapatnam Varun Beach.

The 80 KM challenge was created as a symbolic tribute to 80 years of India's independence, giving participants an opportunity to celebrate the occasion through fitness, movement and community spirit. The Independence Day Run further added to the celebrations, bringing runners from across the city together in an atmosphere of energy and national pride.

Lakshmi Sridhar, General Manager, Novotel Visakhapatnam Varun Beach, said, “Independence Day is a celebration of unity and the spirit of togetherness. It was wonderful to see our Heartists (team members) and the running community come together to mark the occasion in such an active and meaningful way. The 80 KM challenge was not just about running, it was about coming together as a community and celebrating the freedom and spirit that unite us.”

The event also highlighted the connection between running and community building.

Balakrishna Rai, Founder & President, Vizag Runners, said, “Running has always brought people together through a shared sense of discipline, motivation and community. The 80 KM for 80 Years initiative was a meaningful way to celebrate Independence Day, and we were delighted to see such enthusiastic participation from runners across Visakhapatnam. Our collaboration with Novotel Visakhapatnam Varun Beach made the celebration even more special.”

The initiative concluded with participants coming together to celebrate Independence Day through fellowship and a shared focus on an active lifestyle. The collaboration between Novotel Visakhapatnam Varun Beach and Vizag Runners also showed how community-led activities can add a meaningful touch to national celebrations, bringing people together beyond traditional festivities.