As over 50,000 runners prepare to take on the 129th Boston Marathon on April 21, a group of 18 Pakistani athletes—representing both Pakistan and its diaspora—is set to make a historic mark on the prestigious race.
Among them, Karachi-based runners Danish Elahi and Faisal Shafi will attempt to set a Guinness World Record for the fastest marathon completed in Pakistan’s traditional shalwar kameez. Their goal is to finish the grueling 26.2-mile course in under four hours while proudly donning the national dress in green and white.
In addition to the record attempt, six Pakistani runners—including Danish Elahi—are poised to join the elite “Six-Star Finisher” club by completing all six Abbott World Marathon Majors: Boston, New York, Chicago, Berlin, London, and Tokyo. Adnan Gandhi, Hira Diwan, Yusra Bokhari, Nizar Nayani, and Jamal Khan will all cross this significant milestone in Boston on Monday.
The Boston Marathon, the world’s oldest annual marathon, is renowned for its challenging terrain, especially the notorious Heartbreak Hill near Mile 20. With over a million spectators expected to cheer on participants from Hopkinton to Boylston Street, the event is a global celebration of endurance and spirit.
For Pakistan’s contingent, this race is more than just personal achievement—it’s about representing national identity and resilience on an international platform.
Running for Culture and Country
The idea to attempt a world record in shalwar kameez was born from a desire to showcase Pakistani culture on the global stage.
“Faisal encouraged me to make my final six-star marathon about more than just a personal milestone,” said Elahi in an interview with Geo News. “We wanted to do something meaningful—to be remembered as Pakistanis running in our national dress and colors among 50,000 runners and over a million spectators.”
Shafi, who originally conceptualized the idea, emphasized the cultural importance of their mission. “It’s not just about the world record,” he said. “It’s about presenting a softer, more authentic image of Pakistan—its culture, identity, and pride—on one of the biggest stages in the world.”
The current unofficial record for a marathon in traditional attire is held by Canada-based Prakash Banisetty, who attempted the feat in 2018 but fell short of the four-hour goal. Elahi and Shafi, however, are optimistic. While training in shalwar kameez posed its own set of challenges, the duo says they’re well-prepared both physically and mentally.
As they lace up for Boston, these Pakistani runners are not just chasing records—they’re running for recognition, representation, and the pride of a nation.
