Milind Soman and Ankita Konwar Lead Fasted Pinkathon Run on Mahashivratri

In a powerful display of endurance and spiritual devotion, fitness icons Milind Soman and Ankita Konwar hosted the latest edition of the Pinkathon across multiple cities, coinciding with the auspicious occasion of Mahashivratri on February 15, 2026. The couple, known for their minimalist and disciplined lifestyle, participated in the event on an empty stomach, linking the physical rigors of long-distance running with the meditative practice of fasting. Speaking to a gathering of over 5,000 women at the Hyderabad leg of the run, Milind Soman shared his philosophy on the intersection of fitness and spirituality, stating that “Shiva is in discipline.” He emphasized that true strength is found not in occasional milestones but in the daily commitment to one’s well-being, mirroring the steadfastness associated with Lord Shiva. By choosing to run while fasting, the duo aimed to demonstrate that the body is capable of extraordinary feats when guided by a focused and disciplined mind.

The 2026 edition of the Zydus Pinkathon, which also featured ultra-distance categories under Ankita Konwar’s “Invincible Women” platform, saw participants ranging from first-time runners in sarees to seasoned marathoners. Ankita highlighted that the event’s alignment with Mahashivratri added a layer of profound meaning, as the festival celebrates the “divine masculine” qualities of protection, stability, and inner strength. The couple’s “empty-stomach” run served as a call to action for women to reclaim their health through consistency and self-care. As the Pinkathon movement continues its 52-city journey across India, this specific chapter remains a testament to Soman and Konwar’s belief that fitness is a spiritual journey. By integrating the values of the festival into the marathon, they inspired thousands to view physical exercise as a form of “tapas”—a disciplined effort that leads to long-term mental and physical transformation.