Fit India Sundays on Cycle in Mumbai Promotes PM's Anti-Obesity Message

Mumbai, Feb 16 (NationPress) The Fit India Movement's prominent initiative 'Sundays on Cycle' took place this morning at the iconic Gateway of India, aiming to raise public awareness about maintaining a healthy lifestyle through cycling and addressing pollution issues.

The cycling event was inaugurated at the Gateway of India, attracting over 500 cyclists including wellness experts from across the nation, members of various cycling clubs, and fitness enthusiasts. The ride concluded at Girgaon Chowpatty via the scenic Marine Drive.

The ride was spearheaded by Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya, who initiated the Sundays on Cycle campaign in alignment with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision for a healthier nation and his recent call to combat the obesity crisis, particularly among urban youth.

Thus, in addition to promoting good health, this week’s Sundays on Cycle emphasized the message of #FightObesity.

Joining Mandaviya were notable Mumbaikars such as globally recognized wellness expert Dr. Mickey Mehta, designer and fitness advocate Shaina NC, Sanjay Bhatia, IAS, UPA-Lokayukta, Maharashtra, Krishna Prakash, IPS, ADG, Mumbai and the first IPS officer to complete the Ironman Triathlon, Mayank Srivastav, IPS, Deputy Director General, Sports Authority of India, Pandurang Chate, Regional Director, SAI, Mumbai, Bhavani Naik Joshi, CEO, BYCS India Foundation, and up-and-coming actress Aishwarya Raj Bhakuni, alongside SAI athletes and members of Mumbai's cycling clubs.

At the event, the Sports Minister remarked, “The Prime Minister's vision of a Viksit Bharat can only be realized if the citizens of this country are fit, as fit individuals contribute significantly to nation-building. This Sundays on Cycle initiative promotes the importance of a healthy lifestyle while also supporting the environment by encouraging a transport mode with zero carbon emissions. I urge everyone, especially young individuals, to choose cycling for commuting whenever feasible. This will enhance their health and the overall well-being of our environment.”

Praising the initiative, Shaina NC expressed, “I commend Dr. Mandaviya and the sports ministry for this timely and crucial initiative. Today's Sundays on Cycle was a 5 km ride, but I wish it had been longer. The energy among the cyclists was remarkable, and the critical message of combating obesity is vital in today's world where many youngsters lead sedentary lifestyles.”

Fit India Ambassador Mickey Mehta commented, “Cycling is a celebration in itself. Having worked in wellness for many years, initiatives like this, which witness widespread participation across the country, will inspire many Indians to embark on their journey towards a healthier lifestyle.”

The cycling event was concurrently held at the Dhyanchand National Stadium in New Delhi, featuring over 170 riders, including Shivani Pawar, bronze medalist at the 2024 Senior Asian Wrestling Championship and 2025 National Games gold medalist, along with representatives from Decathlon, Cult Fit, and wellness coaches from Yogasana Bharat.

Shivani expressed her joy at the diverse participation, stating, “It’s uplifting to see both elders and younger individuals participating together. Fitness and sports activities are crucial for us, and parents must be proactive in enrolling their children in these. Along with proper education, initiatives like this are essential. Cycling allows us to appreciate nature's beauty.”

Additionally, Fit India Ambassador and IRS officer Narendra Yadav participated in a cycling event at the sports complex in Sector 12, Faridabad, with over 150 cyclists, including athletes and more than 20 yoga instructors from Patanjali Yog Sansthan joining in.