Varanasi, Dec 7 (NationPress) The 52nd edition of Fit India Sundays on Cycle unfolded at over 10,000 sites across the nation, with the principal event hosted in the culturally rich city of Varanasi. This occasion highlighted India's significant achievement in securing the rights to host the Commonwealth Games 2030, showcasing a compelling blend of fitness, culture, and national pride.

Private security guards were recognized as a special focus group in this edition, continuing the initiative's commitment to partner with various professional communities nationwide.

In earlier editions, the movement has successfully engaged diverse groups including lawyers, doctors, government employees, nutritionists, among others, fostering a truly inclusive, community-driven fitness revolution.

Led by Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports Mansukh Mandaviya, this initiative approaches its first anniversary, set for December 21 in Puducherry. “In just one year, the Fit India Sundays on Cycle initiative has been organized at over 10,000 venues, connecting more than 100,000 individuals each week. From athletes and artists to everyday citizens, everyone is part of this movement,” stated the Hon’ble Minister.

“Today's grand event at the esteemed Banaras Hindu University (BHU) not only celebrates the proud milestone of India hosting the 2030 Commonwealth Games, but also marks the first participation of revered cultural figures alongside our athletes who are dedicated to enhancing our sports culture,” Mandaviya added.

The vibrant event at BHU transformed the streets of Kashi into a joyous celebration of health, unity, and India's burgeoning sports reputation. Participants included citizens, athletes, cultural icons, private security personnel, and students, totaling around 1,000 attendees. Alongside cycling, activities such as Zumba, yoga, and rope skipping were also organized.

The distinguished guests at the event included Sh. Daya Shankar Mishra, Minister of State for Ayush, Food Security & Drug Administration, Govt of Uttar Pradesh; Pandit Sajan Mishra - Padma Bhushan awardee and legendary vocalist of the Banaras Gharana; and Mahant Vishambhar Nath Mishra, among others.

Mishra expressed his gratitude towards Prime Minister Modi for initiating the altruistic and visionary Fit India Movement, which has turned fitness into a nationwide phenomenon. He also thanked Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya for continuously enhancing this movement through innovative and inclusive initiatives.

Padma Bhushan Sajan Mishra noted, “This is indeed a moment of pride. We have previously hosted the Asian Games, and the Commonwealth Games are set to occur here in just under five years. Prime Minister Modi emphasizes the importance of fitness for performance. Cycling is integral to Fit India, and such efforts must continue.”

Mahant Vishambhar Nath Mishra remarked, “Such activities should occur regularly in the city. A healthy populace leads to a healthier nation. We must collectively enhance fitness before the Commonwealth Games 2030.”

Celebrating India's role in hosting the Commonwealth Games 2030, the event underscored that a sporting nation must also be a fit nation. Gold medalist Amit Panghal from CWG 2022 stated, “Hosting the Commonwealth Games again after 2010 presents a fantastic opportunity for more athletes to participate and achieve medals. Initiatives like Sundays on Cycle inspire youth to embrace fitness and sports.”

Bronze medallist Pooja Sihag shared, “It's wonderful to know that India will host the 2030 edition. My journey in sports began during the 2010 Commonwealth Games here. This will inspire youth and pave the way for India to host the Olympics. It will also change societal perceptions.” She acknowledged Prime Minister Modi’s unwavering support for the Fit India movement.

While Varanasi served as the focal point, numerous events occurred simultaneously across India this morning. Over 4,000 NaMo Fit India Cycling Clubs, alongside countless everyday citizens, engaged in this cycling initiative, transforming it into a community-led fitness revolution.

The Sports Authority of India (SAI) ensured a robust nationwide presence with the Fit India Sundays on Cycle activities held at SAI Training Centres (STCs) across various regions, including Kokrajhar in Assam and Kargil in Ladakh. These events were also organized in several Khelo India Centres and 23 SAI National Centres of Excellence (NCOEs) nationwide.

The NaMo Cycling Clubs in Bikaner and Jaipur also actively participated, continuing to spread the Sundays on Cycle initiative throughout the country with the same enthusiasm. Union Minister Arjun Meghwal participated in the event at Bikaner.

Upcoming mega events for Sundays on Cycle are scheduled in Goa, Puducherry, and Kolkata.