Vadodara Kicks Off New Year with Enthusiastic Fit India Sundays Cycling Event
Celebrating Health and Fitness in Vadodara
Vadodara, Gujarat, welcomed the New Year with a vibrant celebration as the 55th edition of Fit India Sundays on Cycle took place, attracting participants from over 5000 locations nationwide. This initiative was spearheaded by Vadodara in collaboration with the 'Swachhta Senanis' and the Gujarat government's Department of Drinking Water & Sanitation.
The event turned Vadodara into a hub of fitness festivities, with more than 1000 participants of all ages engaging in activities such as yoga, Zumba, badminton, and rope skipping.
The cycling event commenced at the historic Lukshmi Vilas Palace, officiated by former Indian cricketer Rajesh Chauhan and health coach Sapna Vyas. Notable figures including Vadodara MP Hemang Joshi, Asian Championship gold medalist Nandini Agasara, and Municipal Commissioner Arun Mahesh Babu participated in the 4.5-kilometer ride.
Among the distinguished attendees were Vispy Kharradi, known as the Steel Man of India and a multiple Guinness World Record holder, alongside fitness coach Urvi Parwani.
The Fit India Sundays on Cycle initiative is organized by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports (MYAS) in partnership with various organizations, including the Cycling Federation of India (CFI) and the Indian Rope Skipping Federation (IRSF), led by Shikha Gupta. This cycling initiative is held simultaneously in state capitals and Union Territories, as well as at various sports centers across the country.
Hemang Joshi expressed his pride in Vadodara's participation, stating, “Today marks a significant day for our city as we launched the Fit India Sundays on Cycle campaign from the iconic Lukshmi Vilas Palace. It was heartening to see people of all ages come together to support Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision for a healthier India.”
He further emphasized the importance of such initiatives in fostering a fitness-oriented mindset in Vadodara and Gujarat, thanking Minister Mansukh Mandaviya for his support and announcing the continuation of the event weekly.
Rajesh Chauhan praised the initiative, noting, “It’s wonderful to witness the enthusiasm of both young and elderly participants on this chilly winter morning. Everyone should engage in this movement to enhance their fitness and immunity.”
Reflecting on the COVID-19 pandemic, he highlighted cycling as an excellent way to maintain fitness while contributing to a cleaner environment.
Nandini Agasara, who recently won a bronze medal in heptathlon at the Hangzhou Asian Games, expressed her excitement about being part of this groundbreaking initiative, encouraging everyone to dedicate time to their health.
Launched by Minister Mansukh Mandaviya in December 2024, Fit India Sundays on Cycle has evolved into a nationwide movement, promoting fitness and sustainability, with over 22 lakh participants across more than 2 lakh locations.
Previous events have seen participation from Indian Army personnel, CRPF, ITBP, and various sports stars, including the Great Khali and Lovlina Borgohain. Celebrities like Ayushmann Khurana and Rohit Shetty have also supported this initiative, earning the title of 'Fit India Icon.'