How Did the Historic Fit India Sundays on Cycle Unfold at Attari Border on Republic Day Eve?

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How Did the Historic Fit India Sundays on Cycle Unfold at Attari Border on Republic Day Eve?

Synopsis

On Republic Day Eve, the 58th edition of Fit India Sundays on Cycle captured the spirit of fitness and democracy at the Attari Border. Union Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya honored first-time voters, inspiring a nationwide movement that unites citizens across age and profession. Discover how this vibrant celebration promotes civic duty and an active lifestyle.

Key Takeaways

  • Nationwide participation: Over 25 lakh citizens engaged across two lakh locations.
  • Emphasis on youth involvement: Encouraging first-time voters to take part in the democratic process.
  • Fitness and democracy: The event symbolizes the intersection of physical well-being and civic duty.
  • Inclusivity: Open to all age groups and professions, fostering community spirit.
  • Academic engagement: Universities like IIT Roorkee joined in promoting fitness and awareness.

New Delhi, Jan 25 (NationPress) The 58th edition of the Sundays on Cycle was launched in Karaikal, Puducherry, by Union Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya. He engaged with and honored first-time voters, cycling alongside them to commemorate this special occasion, which was dedicated to National Voter's Day.

During the event, Dr. Mandaviya remarked, "Our esteemed Prime Minister has urged us to honor first-time voters and inspire them to participate in the electoral process for a stronger Bharat. I had the privilege of interacting with over 100 first-time voters, who displayed remarkable enthusiasm for contributing to a Viksit Bharat. As the youngest democracy globally, it is crucial that we harness the vigor of our youth to elevate India to a global superpower."

The 58th installment of Fit India Sundays on Cycle unfolded on an unparalleled nationwide scale, showcasing how this initiative has matured into one of India’s largest grassroots fitness movements. On the eve of Republic Day 2026, significant events occurred from the southern coast of Puducherry to the prestigious IIT Roorkee, and from the historic Attari Border to the capital, New Delhi.

Dr. Mandaviya, who initiated the Fit India Sundays on Cycle event in December 2024, encouraged MY Bharat to lead the charge in promoting awareness about the significance of voting and civic engagement. Within just a year, the initiative has united over 25 lakh citizens across more than two lakh locations. This movement transcends age, profession, and geography, embedding fitness into daily routines.

A particularly moving segment of the 58th edition took place at the Attari Border in Amritsar, where Sundays on Cycle was honored on the eve of Republic Day and National Voters’ Day, alongside Central Armed Police Forces and young voters. Against the backdrop of the Attari-Wagah ceremonial stretch, a rare gathering of soldiers, first-time voters, athletes, celebrities, and everyday citizens came together, embodying a shared sense of pride. The symbolism was clear: a unique fusion of fitness, freedom, and civic responsibility.

Union Minister of State for Youth Affairs and Sports, Raksha N. Khadse, led a series of significant moments that defined the morning. She honored the IG of the Border Security Force (BSF) HQ Jalandhar and acknowledged first-time voters under the #MyBharatMyVote campaign, culminating in a solemn voters’ pledge. At the nation’s border, the celebration of young voters conveyed a powerful message about both democracy and fitness.

Olympian and two-time World Boxing Champion Nikhat Zareen, former Indian fast bowler Siddharth Kaul, along with actors Vivek Dahiya, Ragini Dwivedi, and singer Ashita Dutt, joined the celebrations, engaging with attendees and enhancing the event's appeal.

Fit India influencers also enriched the occasion, reinforcing the notion that fitness transcends professions and celebrity, uniting everyone on equal footing.

As the cycling rally commenced at 8:45 am, 800 cyclists pedaled forward from the Attari Border, cheered on by spectators and fellow participants. Concurrent activities included yoga corners promoting tranquility, rope-skipping zones brimming with youthful energy, interactive games, and cultural performances, all contributing to a vibrant carnival atmosphere. The mood was electric yet deeply emotional, characterized by pride in the uniform, respect for the vote, and joy in collective participation.

The movement also reached educational institutions, with IIT Roorkee hosting the 58th edition on its campus for the first time. Students, faculty, and staff participated in the cycling rally and fitness activities, demonstrating how Sundays on Cycle resonates with the youth and academic circles.

The Roorkee edition exemplified the initiative’s expanding presence, from public thoroughfares and heritage sites to esteemed campuses, encouraging young citizens to adopt active lifestyles while being mindful of their ecological impact. Professor Kamal Kishore Pant, Director of IIT Roorkee, stated, "It is essential to integrate fitness into education to empower our youth."

In New Delhi, the Fit India Sundays on Cycle took place at Vasant Kunj, attracting RWA residents, many of whom were first-time voters. National women’s kabaddi player Ritu Sheoran remarked, "Cycling is an excellent exercise, especially for women, who often face family discouragement towards sports and fitness. It’s simple and can be done for just 15 minutes a day to maintain fitness and agility." National kabaddi player Rohit Kumar emphasized, "I believe such initiatives should be organized weekly to ensure that India remains fit and healthy."

Point of View

I view the Fit India Sundays on Cycle initiative as a vital movement uniting citizens through fitness and civic engagement. This event not only promotes a healthier lifestyle but also encourages active participation in democracy, reflecting the essence of our nation’s vibrant youth. It is a commendable effort towards building a stronger Bharat.
NationPress
25/01/2026

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Fit India Sundays on Cycle initiative?
Fit India Sundays on Cycle is a nationwide movement aimed at promoting fitness and encouraging citizens to embrace healthy lifestyles through cycling events held across various locations.
Who can participate in the Sundays on Cycle events?
The events are open to everyone, including students, professionals, senior citizens, and families, making it an inclusive initiative for all age groups.
How does the initiative relate to voting?
The latest edition of the event coincided with National Voter's Day, highlighting the importance of civic participation and encouraging first-time voters to engage in the electoral process.
Where was the 58th edition of the event held?
The 58th edition took place at multiple locations, including the Attari Border, IIT Roorkee, and other key sites across India, emphasizing the movement's national reach.
What are the benefits of participating in such events?
Participants not only improve their physical health through cycling but also contribute to a sense of community, civic responsibility, and awareness about fitness and voting.
Nation Press