‘Pink Promise Run’ draws strong response, spreads breast cancer awareness

Participants during ‘Pink Promise 2026’, a marathon organised to create awareness about breast cancer, in Mysuru on Saturday.

Mysuru turned pink on Saturday as more than 1,500 people, including children, senior citizens and cancer survivors, participated in ‘Pink Promise 2026’, a marathon organised to create awareness about breast cancer.

Organised by Bharath Hospital and Institute of Oncology (BHIO), in association with Ask Mysuru and Mysore Run Club, the event began near Kote Anjaneya Swami Temple near Mysore Palace. Participants wearing pink T-shirts turned several prominent roads into a sea of pink, reflecting wider public participation in the awareness initiative.

Held as part of Breast Cancer Awareness Month under the theme ‘Every Story Is Unique. Every Journey Matters’, the event featured 3K, 5K and 10K categories. It highlighted the importance of early detection, timely treatment and regular screening.

Dr. Y.S. Madhavi, medical superintendent, BHIO, stressed the importance of regular exercise, a balanced diet and a positive attitude towards maintaining good health. Awareness initiatives, she said, should empower people with knowledge rather than create fear.

Dr. C.P. Madhu, director of JSS Hospital, expressed concern that many women continued to approach hospitals with advanced-stage breast cancer despite sustained awareness campaigns. Early detection and timely treatment could significantly improve outcomes, she said.

Nagaraja Gargeshwari, president and whole-time director of Automotive Axles said a collaborative initiative between the organisation and the hospital had benefited more than 40 patients through surgeries and post-operative care.

Actor Krishi Tapanda appreciated the enthusiastic participation and stressed the need to make fitness a daily habit.

BHIO chief operating officer Gowtham Dhamerla urged women to undergo regular screening and seek medical advice promptly if they noticed unusual changes. He also appealed to corporates and individuals to support underprivileged cancer patients through donations and corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives.