Mumbai, February 6, 2026:
In an inspiring display of unity and purpose, Samman Association, the Mumbai chapter of the Indian Epilepsy Association, successfully organised Jiyo Samman Se Run 2.0, drawing over 1,100 participants and emerging as India’s largest run dedicated to Epilepsy Awareness.
Held along the scenic Bandra Fort seafront, the event brought together persons with epilepsy, caregivers, doctors, families, volunteers, and fitness enthusiasts — all running with one shared goal: to break stigma and promote dignity, inclusion, and understanding.
Organised around International Epilepsy Day, the run also formed part of the global #50MillionCampaign, an initiative by the International Bureau for Epilepsy that calls for greater awareness, rights, and access to care for the nearly 50 million people worldwide living with epilepsy.
The morning featured 3 km, 5 km (timed), and 10 km (timed) categories, with enthusiastic participation across age groups. The venue transformed into a vibrant sea of purple, the global colour for epilepsy awareness. The 10 km run was flagged off by special guest Robin Behl, the fastest Indian to complete the Antarctic Ice Marathon, who applauded the runners for supporting a meaningful cause.
Reflecting on the scale and impact of the event, Dr. Sangeeta Ravat, President of Samman Association and Dean & Professor of Neurology at Seth GSMC & KEM Hospital, said, “We are really proud of the manner in which the Jiyo Samman Se run was conducted to raise epilepsy awareness and create equality for persons with epilepsy. The second edition has seen a much higher number of participants than we expected, which reinforces the urgent need for awareness. On behalf of Samman, I thank all the runners and supporters who came together for the cause.”
Adding to this, Dr. Jayanti Mani, Secretary of Samman Association and neurologist and epileptologist at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital, shared, “Samman represents epilepsy, and we had many epilepsy warriors participate in the run to spread awareness. Fitness brings positivity and confidence, and this is a wonderful way to come together. There should be no stigma around Epilepsy. With the right information, we can always wipe out fear and misconceptions.”
Founded in 1998, Samman Association has worked consistently to improve the quality of life for persons with epilepsy through awareness initiatives, support groups and counselling, and rural medical camps that provide consultations, diagnostics, therapies, and access to treatment for underserved communities. Over the years, the organisation has reached thousands of families and continues to build a more informed and supportive society.
With its scale, spirit, and strong community participation, Jiyo Samman Se Run 2.0 has grown beyond a sporting event into a powerful movement — one that proves that when communities run together, stigma falls behind.
About Samman Association
Samman Association, formerly the Indian Epilepsy Association (Bombay Chapter), has been supporting people with epilepsy and their caregivers since 1971. The organisation works to
reduce stigma and improve quality of life through awareness initiatives, empowerment and skill-building programs, professional training, support group meetings, and rural epilepsy clinics that provide education and access to affordable treatment.
For further information Akanksha Patankar Mirji
Mobile: – +91 98205 27140
Email Id: – [email protected]
Samman Association
Email Id: – [email protected]
