Running Culture: A Sociological Study of the Rise of Marathon Culture in Manipur

Abstract

In Manipur, Long distance running as a recreational and fitness activity has gained popularity in the recent years. However, there is limited research in this regional context. Therefore, this study tries to understand the rise of marathon culture in Manipur from sociological perspective. Our study aims to understand the factors contributing to the rise of marathon events in Manipur and to find out what motivates people to participate and the broader social and cultural significance of this emerging trend. The study used a mixed method approach, combining both qualitative and quantitative data collected through interviews, participant observation, questionnaires and secondary sources. The analysis is guided by Bourdieu’s habitus, Durkheim’s collective effervescence and Mead’s Symbolic interactionalism. The study findings imply that Marathon participation is influenced by individual motivation such as health, personal challenges and enjoyment and broader social influences such as peer networks and social media. Marathon events promote social cohesion and identity formation with participants identifying themselves as “runners”. However, the question of sustainability, accessibility and organisational constraints remain, showing how marathon culture act as a site of social change.