At 77, Deoraj to run for ‘Greener Tomorrow’ in Tata Steel’s Joda Run

Joda: Irrespective of the weather condition, he hits the tracks every morning for workouts. He has been continuing this for last several years to maintain his physical fitness.

Meet Deoraj Samanta (77), a resident of Joda town in mining-rich Keonjhar district of Odisha, who has not given up his passion of running yet.

This ex-employee of Tata Steel is so obsessive to his fitness that, he still takes the pain to participate in all run events across the country, wherever he gets a chance.

“Since Tata Steel Joda Run-a-thon is being organised in my home town, it will be my greatest pleasure to take part in the high octane event. My 10K run will definitely send a message to the society for a ‘Greener Tomorrow”, said an elated Samanta.

A Bronze medal winner in sprint in Asian Athletics Championship, Kolkata, Samanta is also nature lover and likes to plant saplings. He is quite hopeful to better his own run record this time in his native town.

“I’m sure, my morning walker friends, neighbours, friends and wellwishers will encourage to break my own previous record in 10K run,” states he who has been recognised at many such events for his undying willingness to remain fit.

Asked about the inspiration he got to run, Deoraj quips, “I’m self-motivated and self-propelled”.

Tata Steel is organising maiden edition of Run-a-thon in Joda on November 26 with theme- ‘Run for a greener tomorrow’. About 5000 participants are expected to take part in the event.

With Sunday’s event, Joda is going to witness the first ever Professional Run of international standard in Keonjhar district.