Dharmendra kicks off Jaipur Marathon

Veteran Bollywood actor Dharmendra kicked off the Jaipur Marathon-2011 today by lighting the torch and handing over it to squash player Surabhi Mishra at a ceremony Jaipur.

The torch will be carried through several parts of the city during next five days and the marathon will take place on January 23.

While addressing the public, which turned up specially to have a glimpse of him, the 75-year-old actor shared some of his fond memories and recalled his old days and association with the Pink City.

"Since my first visit to the city, Jaipur holds an important place in my heart. I wanted to set up a studio and settled down here, but things did not materialise," he said.

The actor also did not let go of the opportunity to promote his recent release Yamla Pagla Deewana.

"Jaipur walon! Main Chahta hun ki aap sab log Yamla Pagla Deewana dekhne jaye aur sath me apni Basanti ko bhi le jayen (People of Jaipur, I want you go watch Yamla Pagla Deewana and take your wives as well)," said the actor in his usual Sholay style.

The mega event of Jaipur Marathon is likely to have the participation of almost 50,000 people.

"We are hoping around 50,000 people to participate in the second edition of Jaipur marathon. The event will be divided in two parts - Half Marathon and Dream Run, and it will be more of a carnival with lots of activities including live music, competition, treasure hunts, magnificent firework display," said Suresh Mishra, convenor of Jaipur Marathon.

He said that the route of the marathon has been designed in such a way that it will explore the historical and architectural magnificence of the city along with the new face of the modern Jaipur.

"Celebrities, renowned personalities and sportspersons from various contries will participate in the event. Sports personalities of Rajasthan like Rajyawardhan Singh Rathore, Krishna Punia, Surabhi Mishra will also run in the marathon," he added.