On becoming a ‘Legend’
It has taken me 15 years to run 10 editions of SCMM/TMM.
I missed a few years but I NEVER wanted to run it unprepared, just for the heck of continuity or just to run it. I say with pride that all 10 races have been my best effort, all the 10 races have been honest. Of course, how they panned out on Raceday was another story, but going into the races I put in the hours, the mileage and my heart.
When we ran in the early days, we just did them. Without a thought. No Garmin, no fancy gadgets, gizmos or even attire. We chose from the 2 shoes available at the mall. Not many were travelling abroad so the racing calendar was simple- some casual races followed a Delhi half in October, ending with the Bombay full. It was a set pattern for the group.
Running came to me when I was at my lowest point.
Joining Savio’s group gave me a sense of community and taught me how to embrace a challenge.
Running has become such a dominant part of my life and my identity. It was one decision of “running a half marathon just for fun” and the subsequent, deliberate journey, that has brought me here. There was no way that I would have known that I would become a ‘Legend’ (haha!) and that I would run this wonderful and terrible distance so many times over. We can never know what tomorrow will bring. We may think we know, but I believe, we can never fully be sure.
Such is life, the path can be seen only in retrospect. But we need to do what we feel is the right thing for me at the time, without really worrying too much about the destination. There is really no way, that I could even imagine that this was the final outcome.
How did I become a Marathoner, a ‘Legend’?
Every tempo, cemented my sense of self. Each interval taught me to keep my head up and push harder. To not give in. To stand up. Tall. In the face of adversity.
All the fast finishes, took me further than I thought it was possible. It showed me that the boundaries are in my head. And that I can challenge them.
Every minute that I ran, I expanded time. Each kilometre, I lived more.
With every race I became stronger, I learned more about myself.
This recognition has special significance. More than the world majors, this TMM certificate means the world to me.
This is the validation I seek.
Me, running in my city, with my people.
In the dust and pollution.
In the heat and humidity.
Complaining through the run, but overjoyed at the finish.
This is the place where I belong.
TMM 2027 here I come.
Thank you Procam, Thank you TMM.
Kranti
Your words felt like a mirror for my own running journey — thank you for sharing them. If running is a religion, we are its mindful followers: guiding others to reflect, improve, and find joy on their paths. Heartfelt congratulations on becoming a Legend at the Tata Mumbai Marathon — an honor you truly deserve.
Parul
My dearest Kranti, Your spirit is fantastic! We have been almost together on most of the TMMs- and you’ve ALWAYS Managed to finish ahead of me! Haha- It has been really fun sharing the road and this journey with you!
Kranti
Your words felt like a mirror for my own running journey — thank you for sharing them. If running is a religion, we are its mindful followers: guiding others to reflect, improve, and find joy on their paths. Heartfelt congratulations on becoming a Legend at the Tata Mumbai Marathon — an honor you truly deserve.
Prem Rajani
Wonderful.
You run gracefully.
You write eloquently.
You inspire others silently.
You are an amazing person.
Parul
Thank you Prem! Kind words ,<3
Rajendra Bhujbal
Dear TMM Legend,
Very nice write up on becoming a good marathoner.
Have a great day ahead ❤️
Parul
Thank you Sir! Wish you a wonderful day too.
Vivek Singh
Parul dear
Way to go… More power to you
Big God bless 🙌
Parul
This means a lot to me Vivek! Thank you for your kind wishes and forever grateful to team Procam and of course TMM!
Parin
Huge achievement , take a bow . Looking back at where you must have started and where you have reached is a long journey and definitely a successful one.. Wishing you heartiest congratulations on becoming a Legend!!
Parul
Thank you Parin!! Now- onto your journey!! All the best for all your ventures!!
Durgesh
Congratulations Parul and nice write-up. Reinforcing “Sheth” as the most common surname in legends 🙂
Parul
Haha. Thank you. Nice one. Nowhere close to the OGs! The Sheths and heroes like inspire all of us. Comrades is another league only 🙏🙌
Vikas
This is indeed an amazing achievement, but for all of us who have seen your sincerity, dedication, passion and hard work year after a year, race or no race, that is the real light of inspiration. The awards are merely the halo. Well done.