TATA MUMBAI MARATHON (TMM) 2026, supported by its philanthropy partner United Way Mumbai, has already overtaken last year’s total fundraising, crossing Rs 53.7 crore even before race day. With contributions continuing until 5 February, this edition is on track to become one of the most successful charity campaigns in the marathon’s history.
A strong surge of first-time fundraisers is driving much of this momentum, as individuals across the country mobilise their personal networks in support of causes close to their hearts. Donations raised through the TMM platform are funding initiatives that improve access to education for children, empower women, strengthen communities, enhance healthcare, support animal welfare and protect the environment.
Since its inception in 2004, the marathon’s philanthropy platform has raised more than Rs 536 crore, fuelled by the collective efforts of NGOs, corporates, runners and individual donors. While experienced fundraisers continue to provide a steady backbone, 2026 has recorded the highest-ever number of new fundraisers. Over 1,100 first-timers now make up nearly 75 per cent of all participants, having already raised more than Rs 5.6 crore, significantly widening the circle of giving.
Corporate and institutional engagement has also reached record levels. A total of 194 corporate teams are participating this year, with 40 companies backing the marathon’s charity initiative for the first time. At the same time, the non-profit ecosystem continues to expand, with 68 new NGOs joining in 2026, taking overall participation to 305 organisations.
At a press interaction held on 13 January, a panel of first-time fundraisers and social impact advocates shared their journeys into philanthropy through TMM 2026. The speakers included Aryavir Rakesh Jhunjhunwala, Haseena Themali, Samir Popat Mengal, Ira Khan, and Shanta Vallury Gandhi, each bringing a fresh perspective to India’s growing culture of participatory giving.
Complementing this new wave of supporters is a distinguished group of long-standing contributors known as the Change Legends, whose leadership continues to shape the platform year after year. Among this year’s standout fundraisers are Villy Doctor (Rs 1.67 crore), Ajay H. Mehta (Rs 1.40 crore) and Sadashiv S. Rao (Rs 1.09 crore). Dr Bijal Mehta, Dr Meera Mehta and Shyam Jasani have also each crossed the Rs 1 crore mark through their sustained philanthropic efforts.
Adding a compelling new chapter to this legacy is 16-year-old Sophie Sona Shah, founder of Chronically Me and the youngest Change Legend in the history of the Tata Mumbai Marathon. A first-time fundraiser, her achievement reflects the evolving face of philanthropy at TMM 2026.
United Way Mumbai CEO George Aikara said, “We are witnessing a generational shift in philanthropy. When more than 70 percent of your fundraisers, 40 new corporates, and 68 new NGOs join in a single year, it signals that giving is becoming part of mainstream civic life. The Tata Mumbai Marathon is no longer just a race; it has become a platform that is shaping how a new generation engages with philanthropy.”
Procam International JT MD Vivek Singh added, “The Philanthropy Pillar of the Tata Mumbai Marathon has evolved into an ecosystem in itself, offering corporates, NGOs, runners, and individual fundraisers a powerful platform for social good. It has strengthened our bond with civil society, and my heartiest congratulations to all the fundraisers for taking a conscious step towards initiating purposeful change. Kudos to the entire team at United Way Mumbai for leading this pillar from the front and continually guiding and strengthening the efforts of all our fundraisers. Many people may not realise this, but in the NGO world, the cost of fundraising is often as high as 50–60%. Thanks to United Way of Mumbai, we have been able to bring that down to just 3.83%, ensuring that resources reach where they are needed most. That is why today, as you heard, 309 NGOs are using the Mumbai Marathon to raise funds and awareness.”
