HDFC Bank will mobilise nearly 1,500 employees at the Tata Mumbai Marathon 2026 on January 18, turning one of India’s biggest sporting events into a powerful platform for cancer awareness and early detection.
The initiative is being led through the Bank’s CSR programme, Parivartan, in partnership with the Indian Cancer Society (ICS), India’s oldest non-profit dedicated to cancer care.
Anchored in Parivartan’s Healthcare and Hygiene pillar, the effort underscores HDFC Bank’s focus on preventive healthcare, stronger health infrastructure and improved health-seeking behaviour. By aligning with ICS at the marathon, the Bank aims to spotlight cancers that are highly treatable when detected early.
The collaboration also reflects Parivartan’s broader commitment to community health. Alongside HDFC Bank employees, ICS will field a contingent of more than 100 runners, including young cancer survivors and ICS staff—adding a deeply human dimension to the campaign.
Speaking about the marathon, Kaizad Bharucha, Deputy Managing Director, HDFC Bank, said, “We are running for a cause that touches every family in some way. As a bank, our responsibility extends beyond financial services to the well-being of the communities we serve. We are proud to stand with the Indian Cancer Society to raise awareness, encourage early detection, and remind everyone that small steps can create life-changing impact.”
Highlighting the significance of the partnership, Usha Thorat, Hon. Secretary and Managing Trustee at Indian Cancer Society, and Former Deputy Governor, Reserve Bank of India, said, “We are grateful to HDFC Bank for its unwavering support and for bringing together such a large contingent of employees to champion cancer awareness. Cancer affects countless families in India, and awareness is the first step towards improving outcomes.
"Early detection through simple screening significantly improves survival rates, yet fear, stigma, and lack of information continue to delay diagnosis. Seeing cancer survivors participate in the Tata Mumbai Marathon is deeply inspiring. Their courage and positivity reflect the spirit required to fight cancer and stay ahead of it. Cancers such as Oral, Cervical, and Breast can be detected early through simple screening processes, and early detection consistently leads to better outcomes such as better survival reduction in morbidity and cost of treatment.”
To mark the collaboration, ICS has already conducted cancer awareness sessions for HDFC Bank employees and organised screening camps at select locations.
Reinforcing the Bank’s commitment, Bharucha added, “At HDFC Bank, we believe strong communities begin with healthy lives. We are delighted to have 1,500 colleagues volunteer run for this cause. This is among the largest employee contingents we have fielded for the marathon till date. Our employees have come together as a community committed to making a meaningful difference.”
Beyond the marathon, HDFC Bank Parivartan continues to invest in healthcare initiatives nationwide, including cancer care partnerships with institutions such as the Gujarat Cancer Society and Tata Memorial Hospital.
