The Fit India Movement’s flagship initiative, ‘Sundays on Cycle,’ was held at Mumbai’s historic Gateway of India, aiming to promote a healthier lifestyle through cycling while also addressing environmental concerns.
The event saw the participation of over 500 cyclists, including wellness experts, cycling clubs, and fitness enthusiasts from across the country.
The cycling ride, which began at the Gateway of India and concluded at Girgaon Chowpatty along the scenic Marine Drive, was led by Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya.
The initiative aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of a healthier nation and his recent emphasis on tackling obesity, particularly among urban youth.
This week’s theme, #FightObesity, aimed to spread awareness about the growing health issue and encourage people to adopt cycling as a fitness activity.
Several well-known personalities joined the event, including wellness expert Dr Mickey Mehta, designer and social worker Shaina NC, Maharashtra’s UPA Lokayukta Sanjay Bhatia, and senior IPS officers Krishna Prakash and Mayank Srivastav.
Also present were Pandurang Chate, Regional Director of the Sports Authority of India (SAI), Bhavani Naik Joshi, CEO of BYCS India Foundation, and actor Aishwarya Raj Bhakuni. Athletes from SAI and members of Mumbai’s cycling clubs also participated, adding to the enthusiasm of the event.
Speaking at the gathering, the Union Sports Minister highlighted the importance of fitness for national development. He stated that a strong and healthy population is key to achieving the goal of a developed India.
Mandaviya emphasised the environmental benefits of cycling, calling it a mode of transport with zero carbon emissions. He urged the youth to incorporate cycling into their daily routines, not only to improve their own well-being but also to contribute to a cleaner environment.
Shaina NC praised the initiative and expressed her appreciation for the growing enthusiasm for fitness. She shared that while the ride covered 5 km, she wished it could have been even longer, given the excitement of the participants.
She also stressed the significance of spreading awareness about obesity and encouraging young people to lead active lifestyles.
Renowned wellness expert and Fit India Ambassador Mickey Mehta described cycling as a celebration of health. He stated that mass participation in such events could serve as motivation for many to take their first step towards a healthier life.
Alongside the Mumbai event, ‘Sundays on Cycle’ was also held at the Dhyanchand National Stadium in New Delhi, where more than 170 cyclists participated.
Among them was Shivani Pawar, a bronze medallist at the 2024 Senior Asian Wrestling Championship and a gold medallist at the 2025 National Games.
Representatives from Decathlon, Cult Fit, SAI’s National Centre of Sports Sciences and Research, and wellness experts from Yogasana Bharat also joined the ride.
Shivani Pawar expressed her happiness in seeing a diverse group of participants, including people of all ages.
She highlighted the importance of fitness and sports in daily life and encouraged parents to actively involve their children in physical activities. She also pointed out that cycling not only promotes health but allows people to enjoy and appreciate nature.
Another cycling event was organised in Faridabad, led by Fit India Ambassador and IRS officer Narendra Yadav. The event, held at the Sports Complex in Sector 12, saw the participation of over 150 cyclists, including athletes and more than 20 yoga instructors from Patanjali Yog Sansthan.
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