Vadodara Kicks Off Fit India Sundays with Enthusiastic Participation
A Healthy Start to the New Year
The New Year commenced on a vibrant and health-focused note as the 55th edition of Fit India Sundays on Cycle witnessed overwhelming participation across 5,000 locations nationwide. Vadodara led the charge in collaboration with special partners 'Swachhta Senanis' and the Gujarat government's Department of Drinking Water & Sanitation.
Vadodara's Fitness Festival
Vadodara transformed into a hub of celebration, with over 1,000 participants from diverse age groups engaging in activities such as yoga, Zumba, badminton, and rope skipping. The cycling event was inaugurated at the iconic Lukshmi Vilas Palace by former Indian cricketer Rajesh Chauhan and health coach Sapna Vyas.
Key Figures Join the Event
Notable attendees included Member of Parliament Hemang Joshi, Asian Championship gold medalist Nandini Agasara, Municipal Commissioner Arun Mahesh Babu, and DCPs Abhishek Gupta and Smt. Majitha K. Vanzara, all of whom participated in the 4.5-kilometer cycling ride. Other prominent figures included Vispy Kharradi, known as the Steel Man of India, and fitness coach Urvi Parwani.
Government Initiative for Health
The Fit India Sundays on Cycle initiative is organized by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports (MYAS) in partnership with the Cycling Federation of India (CFI), Indian Rope Skipping Federation (IRSF), Yogasana Bharat, Raahgiri Foundation, My Bikes, and MY Bharat. This cycling drive occurs simultaneously in state capitals and Union Territories, as well as various sports centers.
A Historic Day for Vadodara
Hemang Joshi, the Member of Parliament from Vadodara, remarked, "Today marks a historic occasion for Vadodara as we launched the Fit India Sundays on Cycle from the Lukshmi Vilas Palace. The turnout from all age groups, including children and seniors, reflects our commitment to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision for a healthier India. We aim to foster a culture of fitness in Vadodara and Gujarat, and I thank Minister Mansukh Mandaviya for this initiative. We plan to continue this weekly in Vadodara."
Cycling: A Path to Fitness
Rajesh Chauhan, a former cricketer who played 21 Tests and 35 ODIs, praised the initiative, stating, "I am thrilled to be part of the Fit India Sundays on Cycle. The enthusiasm displayed by participants of all ages on this chilly morning is commendable. Cycling is an excellent way to enhance fitness and immunity, especially post-COVID-19. It requires a one-time investment in a good bicycle, which not only promotes personal health but also contributes to a cleaner environment."
Encouraging Daily Fitness
Nandini Agasara, a bronze medalist in heptathlon at the 2023 Hangzhou Asian Games, expressed her pride in participating in this initiative. "Seeing individuals of all ages engaging in various physical activities is inspiring. I encourage everyone to dedicate at least 30 minutes to an hour daily for their fitness and health," she stated.
Fit India: A Nationwide Movement
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 2.2 million participants across more than 200,000 locations. The initiative has also seen involvement from various organizations, including the Indian Army, CRPF, and numerous sports stars and celebrities who have been designated as 'Fit India Icons.'