THE JHARKHAND STORY NETWORK
Gumla, Oct 16: The quiet morning air of Ghaghra came alive with energy and anticipation as hundreds of runners gathered for the annual Vikas Marathon — a 28-kilometre run from Ghaghra to Chingri held in memory of the revered freedom fighter Jatra Tana Bhagat.
Organised by Vikas Bharti Bishunpur, the event has been a proud tradition for 36 consecutive years, celebrating both athletic spirit and the enduring legacy of one of Jharkhand’s greatest sons.
A total of 885 participants — 650 boys and 235 girls — took part in the marathon this year. Along the route, villagers lined the roadsides, waving, clapping, and cheering the young runners as they raced through the heart of their communities.
Adding to the spirit of encouragement, 48 football players from different parts of the Gumla district were presented with new jerseys, symbolising teamwork, discipline, and youth empowerment.
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Among those who attended were Vikas Bharti Secretary Ashok Bhagat, former Rajya Sabha MP Sameer Oraon, former Legislative Council Member Praveen Singh, Bhikhari Bhagat, Mahendra Bhagat, Ravindra Bhagat, and several community leaders and social workers who praised the event’s role in inspiring the next generation.
Wheels of Determination: The Kartik Oraon Cycle Race
On October 14, Vikas Bharti Bishunpur hosted another of its longstanding traditions — the Pankhraj Saheb Baba Late Kartik Oraon Cycle Race.
Flagged off from Bakshidipa Ground in Lohardaga, the 54-kilometre race took cyclists on a challenging route through Ghaghra via Bishunpur, culminating at Chingri, where the Jatra Tana Bhagat Memorial Site stands as a beacon of courage and unity.
Hundreds of boys and girls pedalled with determination and pride, transforming the winding roads into a celebration of endurance, heritage, and community strength.
Gracing the occasion were former Union Minister of State Sudarshan Bhagat, Jharkhand State Sanghchalak Sachchidanand, KVIC Ranchi Director Mange Ram, Deputy Director S. K. Mishra, Bhikhari Bhagat, and Mahendra Bhagat, alongside many local workers and supporters who came together to uphold the legacy of service and spirit that defines these events.
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A Tradition that Inspires Generations
For over three decades, Vikas Bharti Bishunpur has kept alive the memory of freedom fighters and community leaders through sports and youth engagement. The annual marathon and cycle race are not just competitions — they are celebrations of perseverance, unity, and the power of young people to carry forward the ideals of dedication and self-reliance.
As the final participants crossed the finish line at Chingri, applause filled the air — a fitting tribute to both the athletes and the timeless spirit of Jatra Tana Bhagat.
