“South India’s Only Hill Run is Back: DNMR 2026 Unveiled in Bengaluru”
DivyaSree Nandi Monsoon Run Returns with Bigger Ambitions; 2nd Edition Unveiled in Bengaluru
Bengaluru, April 19, 2026: The DivyaSree Nandi Monsoon Run (DNMR), recognised as South India’s only hill run, is set to return with an expanded second edition this year.
The organisers formally unveiled DNMR 2026 at a curtain-raiser event in Bengaluru, announcing that the race will take place on August 9 at the picturesque Nandi Hills.
Backed by the Department of Youth Empowerment and Sports (DYES), Government of Karnataka, in collaboration with JJ Active and DivyaSree, the event is aiming for a significant scale-up.
DivyaSree Nandi Monsoon Run Returns with Bigger Ambitions; 2nd Edition Unveiled in Bengaluru
Bengaluru, April 19, 2026: The DivyaSree Nandi Monsoon Run (DNMR), recognised as South India’s only hill run, is set to return with an expanded second edition this year.
The organisers formally unveiled DNMR 2026 at a curtain-raiser event in Bengaluru, announcing that the race will take place on August 9 at the picturesque Nandi Hills.
Backed by the Department of Youth Empowerment and Sports (DYES), Government of Karnataka, in collaboration with JJ Active and DivyaSree, the event is aiming for a significant scale-up.
Organisers have also outlined a long-term vision of transforming the event into a marquee destination run, with aspirations to attract international runners in the coming years.
What sets DNMR apart is its terrain and timing. Held amid the monsoon, the run offers participants a rare chance to navigate mist-covered hill routes, blending endurance sport with an immersive natural experience. As hill running gains popularity across India, DNMR continues to position itself as a distinctive offering in the southern region.
Sustainability remains central to the event’s identity.
Organisers have reiterated their commitment to eco-conscious practices through initiatives such as the Green Warrior Program, which encourages runners to carry reusable bottles and opt for shared or public transport. The event will also maintain its no-plastic, no-disposable-cup policy, alongside collaborations with environmental groups for tree-planting drives and independent audits aimed at achieving near zero-waste impact.
Speaking at the launch, Principal Secretary of DYES, Naveen Kumar Singh, highlighted the broader significance of the initiative, noting its role in promoting fitness, youth engagement and responsible event management. He added that DNMR aligns with the state’s “Sashakta Karnataka” vision and has the potential to evolve into a flagship sporting and tourism event.
Ruchika Bhaskar Raju of DivyaSree emphasised the experiential aspect of the run, stating that the event is designed to go beyond conventional sporting formats by bringing together nature, community and mindful living. Meanwhile, JJ Active’s head coach Pramod Deshpande underlined the focus on technical excellence, safety and race-day experience, describing DNMR as a step forward in strengthening Bengaluru’s reputation as a running hub.
The 2026 edition will feature both Half Marathon and 10K categories, catering to runners across skill levels. Notably, both race routes have now received certification from World Athletics, marking an upgrade in standards and credibility.
With registrations now open, DNMR 2026 is expected to further consolidate its position as a unique, sustainable hill run while boosting sports tourism and community-driven fitness in Karnataka.