NRI Woman runs Manchester Marathon in Saree

An Indian woman living in the UK showcased her heritage by completing the Manchester Marathon while dressed in a saree.

NRI Woman runs Manchester Marathon in Saree f

"You made us proud by projecting the Indian saree"

An Indian woman made headlines after completing the Manchester Marathon on April 16, 2023, in a saree.

Madhusmita Jena-Das, who is originally from Odisha and now lives in Manchester, ran the UK’s second-largest marathon in an impressive four hours and 50 minutes.

For the run, the 41-year-old teacher wore a beautiful red Sambalpuri handloom saree.

Along with the red saree, Madhusmita wore orange trainers.

She proudly stood out among her fellow runners, who were in more traditional gear.

A video on Twitter showed a smiling Madhusmita running while people cheered for her. She even gave a high-five to one spectator.

The tweet read: “Madhusmita Jena, an Indian living in Manchester, UK, comfortably runs the Manchester marathon 2023 in a lovely Sambalpuri Saree.

“While proudly showcasing her Indian heritage, she also presents an inviting perspective on the quintessential #Indian attire.”

Madhusmita’s run led to admiration on social media.

One said: “Great… congratulations Ma’am.

“You made us proud by projecting the Indian saree, our weavers would always be thankful to you.”

Another said: “Spotted her on the course, made me smile.”

A spectator commented: “Spotted her on the course, made me smile.”

One proud netizen said: “Madhusmita Jena is the pride of our India. And it also introduced the Indian sari to the marathon in 2023.”

A comment read: “Super act to promote and belief in your culture and roots. Kudos. Keep running.”

NRI Woman runs Manchester Marathon in Saree

Speaking about her marathon experience, Madhusmita said:

“I was the only person to run the marathon wearing a saree.

“Running for such an extended period of time is in itself an uphill task but doing so in a saree is even more difficult.”

“But I am happy I was able to complete the entire distance in 4.50 hours.”

She went on to say that she was inspired by her grandmother and mother to run the Manchester Marathon in a saree because they always used to wear the traditional outfit around her.

Madhusmita added: “Many believe women cannot run wearing sarees but I proved them wrong by doing the task draped a Sambalpuri handloom.

“I anyway wear sarees during summers in the UK.”

The Manchester Marathon proved to be an eventful one as a couple got engaged at the finish line.

Niall West went down on one knee as he and Beth Miller approached the end of the Manchester Marathon.

Lead Editor Dhiren is our news and content editor who loves all things football. He also has a passion for gaming and watching films. His motto is to "Live life one day at a time".





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