Shivananda (Nanda) Vasant Shetty (48), a Zaveri Bazaar resident originally from Niddodi, Karnataka, has become a symbol of dedication and endurance in the marathon and long-distance running community. Over the last 19 years (2006-2025), Shetty has participated in more than 615 events on national and international stages, earning accolades spanning multiple countries and age categories.
In December 2005, Shetty paid ₹300 to register for his first Standard Chartered Marathon in 2006. Since then, he has participated in every single edition of the marathon for the past 19 years without missing a race. Speaking to FPJ, Shetty shared that he completed his first 21-kilometer half-marathon in two hours, running alongside industrialist Anil Ambani.
Originally from Karnataka, Shetty moved to Mumbai in 1993 and began working in the canteen of the G South Ward of the Mumbai Municipal Corporation. For eight years, he served tea and snacks to officers and employees, running up and down the stairs from 8 AM to 6 PM, which helped him build physical fitness. He later transitioned to working in hotels in Mumbai’s western suburbs and eventually Zaveri Bazaar, advancing from waiter to supervisor.
Despite his professional commitments, Shetty’s passion for running remained unwavering. Over the last 19 years, he has participated in over 750 marathons and races, consistently achieving podium finishes. In this year’s Mumbai Marathon, Shetty competed in the 45–50 age category, completing the 42.19-kilometer marathon in 3 hours and 55 minutes.
He credits his success to the support of several benefactors. Actor Suniel Shetty and his wife have provided financial assistance for his marathon entries, while Reliance Industries and industrialist Anant Ambani contributed approximately ₹5 lakh to support his participation in international marathons and Master Games events. Shivananda Shetty’s remarkable journey—from serving tea in a municipal canteen to becoming a celebrated marathon runner—is a story of determination and grit, inspiring countless others to chase their dreams.
International Competitions
Shetty has participated in events across eight countries, including New Zealand, Australia, Sri Lanka, South Korea, Malaysia, Indonesia, Dubai, and Brunei, competing in distances ranging from 100 meters to 100 kilometers.
Master Games (2010–2026)
He has won a remarkable 56 medals, including gold, silver, and bronze.
Marathon, Ultra Runs, and Track & Field Events
Shetty has demonstrated versatility by participating in 12-hour and 24-hour endurance races, as well as 5 km, 10 km, 15 km, 21 km, and 25 km events.
His achievements include winning 28 medals between 2015 and 2024 in various age categories: 30–35, 35–40, 40–45, and 45–50 years. His accomplishments have been widely recognized by communities, including Bunts Sangha, which has supported him for over a decade.
With over 350 podium finishes, Shetty’s inspiring journey proves that determination and hard work can lead to excellence. His legacy continues to inspire the next generation of runners and sports enthusiasts around the world.
Shetty has been an active volunteer throughout the year, offering his time and effort at Shree Siddhivinayak Temple and Mumba Devi Temple. His selfless attitude and readiness to help extend to marathons, where he supports event organizers even on the day before major races.
Shivananda Shetty stated that his achievements were made possible with the blessings of Mumba Devi and Lalbaugcha Raja. He also expressed confidence that if children in the 12–13 age group start preparing for sports now, they could bring home several medals in the 2036 Olympic Games.
