Tata Steel World 25K Kolkata 2025

My first trip to Kolkata nearly failed before it began. IndiGo was dealing with widespread flight disruption, my morning flight was cancelled, and the replacement took me through Raipur on a six-hour journey. I eventually reached the city and checked in near Eden Gardens, where a friend gave me the best possible welcome: a walking tour built around his favourite Kolkata street food.

My first impression of the city was mixed. I was surprised and disappointed by the amount of litter I saw, even around prominent central areas near Victoria Memorial. At the same time, one short walk was enough to show me how much food, culture, and history I had no time to explore. The schedule was tight, and I left wanting to return with enough days to see Kolkata beyond a race weekend.

The race itself did not improve that first impression. I gave it my best, but found the route less enjoyable than running in Delhi: several roads were narrow, the field felt crowded, and parts of the management seemed unsafe. At one crossing, buses were still moving through live traffic while runners were directed across the road. It was difficult to relax into the run when the course kept demanding that kind of attention.

Still, every kilometre moved me one race closer to completing the Procam Slam, and I met new people along the way. What I cherish most from the weekend is not the route but the day before it—the friend who welcomed me, the long walk, and a first taste of Kolkata that made me curious enough to come back.