Sometimes, the biggest races begin with a mistake. Rajmani Singh, an avid runner lost his bib just a day before the Tata Mumbai Marathon 2026, which abruptly ended his months of preparation, and a long-awaited 42K dream.

What followed, however, was not despair but a positive revival. “Instead of sulking, I leaned into gratitude. A short break, and a few reassuring words from my coach Kaushik Panchal helped me reframe the disappointment. I kept telling myself, if one door closes, Dubai opens,” emphasised Singh.