I somehow have a disbelief in a migration theory that we all have our ancestors hailing from Africa. I believe that human beings have evolved simultaneously on various parts of earth from similar ancestors. I am no Gene Scientist or an Anthropologist, but based on my current level of knowledge and logic, I am strongly convinced that what I said above has a chance to be true.

However, being a man of science, I am going to give a shot to the genome project, a 5-year long research study by National Geographic and IBM, started in 2005. The study is based on the hypothesis that Africa is the motherland of all human beings. It will trace migrations of our ancestors thousands of years ago, based on our DNA samples and computer databases.

I plan to participate in the genome study and trail my ancestory to Africa and will have no surprises, if at the end of 5 years, this study reveals something different than the African motherland theory.

This post is rather late, but I want to begin by thanking all the donors, who helped me raise almost Rs. 28,000 for donating it to a charity Child Aid Foundation in Vijaywada, Andhra Pradesh. Special thanks to an anonymous donor, who contributed 1/3rd of that amount raised.

Now about the marathon. This is the first time I ever took part in a Marathon, ofcourse, it was the 21 Km half-marathon. Full Marathon is still 2 years away.

After running half-marathon (21 Kms) in Mumbai Marathon, I am reminded of my earlier experience of being a part of the long distance Skating Rallies as a school kid. Endurance is the key in such events.

The route started from VT Station thorough Marine Drive, Chowpatty, Pedar road, Haji Ali sea face, we took a u–turn below Worli flyover and came back on the same route.

The journey was NOT tiring as I expected, but instead my legs were giving up, especially in the second half. At times, I feared a muscle pull or similar injuries. I managed by slowing down or simply walking small stretches in between.

Some moments captured in my mind:

1) Passing the start line, along with thousands of other half-marathoners.

2) Taking a turn from Pizzeria Circle onto Marine Drive, with Kingfisher cheerleaders pumping up the spirits.

3) The sight of the leaders of the race I participated were already returning back (had completed 16 kms from start), when I had just cleared Chowpatty (8 –Kms from the start),

4) The Western Naval Command had its own Band playing live for us, near Haji Ali Juice Centre, provided us a feeling that we were a part of the Republic Day Parade.

5) A group of around 30 leading runners in the full marathon (42 Kms) passed by our side, when we reached half-distance, even though they started an hour late. They were led by a range of stout security men on bullet motorcycles and open jeeps.

6) Residents of Pedar Road (Annie Besant Road) coming out in full force to support the runners. Children were excited to see so many people running.

7) Peddar Road was the most difficult part to run, due to its hilly structure.

Residents shelled out Banners written with “Never, never, never give up”, “Run Mumbai Run” & other inspiring thoughts.

9) While on track, the two languages I heard the most were: English & Gujarati (Yes, Gujjus are becoming sporty too)

A Photographic Essay Follows:

Thousands gather in the dark. Spirits are high. Start time 6:45 A.M.

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