A lone runner against the backdrop of Tawang’s iconic Buddha statue has become the subject of a black-and-white artwork by Assam-based cartoonist Michael Mili, bringing together the endurance of marathon running and the spiritual character of the Eastern Himalayas.
The sketch, created during the fourth edition of the Tawang Marathon 2026, portrays a woman runner beneath the towering statue, with the surrounding scenery reflecting the region’s natural beauty and cultural heritage. It belongs to Mili’s ‘Soul Canvas’ series, distinguished by his technique of drawing with his bare fingers rather than conventional tools such as brushes, pens or styluses.
Mili’s journey as an artist began at the age of 14, when he took up cartooning. By 15, he had gained recognition as India’s youngest professional cartoonist. His cartoons and illustrations have since featured in local and national publications.
Beyond documenting a sporting event, the artwork offers a glimpse of Tawang’s distinct identity, where the demands of high-altitude running meet a landscape shaped by spirituality and Himalayan traditions.
Held on October 24, the marathon brought more than 4,500 participants to the Gyalwa Tsangyang Gyatso High Altitude Stadium, located around 10,000 feet above sea level. The Arunachal Pradesh government organised the event in association with the Indian Army, with runners competing in the full marathon, half marathon, 10-km and 5-km categories.
The participation of athletes, defence personnel and local residents also drew attention to Tawang’s scope for adventure sports and tourism.
Through his distinctive finger-art technique, Mili has interpreted the marathon from a cultural perspective, using the image of a solitary runner to connect the physical challenge of the race with the spiritual and natural setting in which it takes place.
