Kolkata, 8th August 2025 — East India’s largest participatory sporting event, the Tata Steel World 25K Kolkata, has been a symbol of pride and prestige for over a decade. This World Athletics Gold Label race will mark its 10th historic edition on Sunday, 14th December 2025.
Since its inception, the Indian Army has played a pivotal role in the event’s journey, with Kolkata’s iconic Red Road serving as the race’s starting point. To honour this long-standing partnership, Procam International, in collaboration with the Indian Army and the Family Welfare Fund, Bengal Sub Area, organised a special Art Camp at the Marco Hall, Raj Bhavan, Kolkata.
The event was graced by the Hon’ble Governor of West Bengal, Dr. C. V. Ananda Bose, alongside distinguished Army officers, partners, and creative luminaries.
Governor’s Tribute: Art Meets Endurance
Speaking at the event, Dr. Bose reflected on Kolkata’s artistic heritage, saying:
> “Kolkata, the cradle of the Bengal School of Painting, has always been a city where creativity runs as deep as its history. Today, as the Art Camp unfolds, we celebrate two powerful forces—art and endurance. Just as a soldier stands guard with unwavering discipline, an artist stands for truth and beauty with equal resolve. The Tata Steel World 25K is not merely a run; it is a test of persistence, just like creating great art. Both journeys demand vision, patience, and courage. It’s not only about starting strong—it’s about finishing with purpose, dignity, and excellence.”
Artists Unite for a Noble Cause
In a moving tribute blending art, sport, and service, 25 emerging painters from prestigious Bengal art institutions — including Visva-Bharati University, Rabindra Bharati University, Government College of Art & Craft, Birla Academy of Art & Culture, Indian Art College, and Montmartre — created powerful works inspired by courage, resilience, and national pride.
The artworks, curated by acclaimed artist Shri Debasish Mallick Choudhury, will be exhibited later this year at the Indian Council of Cultural Relations (ICCR), Ministry of External Affairs. Notably, 100% of the proceeds from the exhibition will be donated to the Army Welfare Fund, Bengal Sub Area, supported by the Impact360 Foundation.
Corporate and Organiser’s Vision
Ashish Anupam, Vice President, Long Products, Tata Steel, said:
“As title sponsors, we are proud to celebrate this remarkable 10th anniversary. The Tata Steel World 25K is more than just a race — it’s a celebration of resilience, teamwork, and the vibrant spirit of Kolkata. We are honoured to support an initiative that promotes fitness, pays tribute to our armed forces, and nurtures the artistic aspirations of our youth. Here’s to many more successful races ahead.”
Vivek Singh, Joint Managing Director, Procam International, added:
When Procam brought running to the East in 2014, it was a leap of faith. The unwavering support of the Government of West Bengal, the Governor, and the Indian Army has been the backbone of this event. This art initiative is more than a tribute — it’s a celebration of service, courage, and creativity.
Looking Ahead
As the Tata Steel World 25K Kolkata prepares for its milestone edition, it stands as a shining example of how sports can unite communities, honour the armed forces, and inspire the next generation through art and endurance.
