Guwahati, Feb 8 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision for a healthier India resonated strongly during a special edition of Sundays on Cycle at the Sarusajai Stadium Complex this past Sunday. Esteemed Olympians and celebrated athletes came together to elevate this initiative. The event showcased the participation of two Olympians, a former world champion boxer, a leading Indian women’s footballer, and a women’s Dronacharya boxing coach, all emphasizing the irreplaceable value of both physical and mental fitness.

The cycling event commenced early in the morning under the auspices of Assam Sports Minister Shrimati Nandita Garlosa, with around 400 participants cycling a six-kilometre path along NH-27 and around the Sarusajai Stadium, now known as the Arjun Bhogeswar Baruah Sports Complex.

“Events that promote fitness, championed by PM Modi and actively supported by Union Sports Minister Shri Mansukh Mandaviya, are vital for realizing our aspiration for a Viksit Bharat by 2047. It’s heartening to witness the youth of Assam stepping forward to engage in a cycling event on a Sunday morning. These are promising indicators,” remarked Shrimati Garlosa.

The cycling group was led by 2012 London Olympians Jayant Talukdar (archery) and Bharat Chetri (hockey), along with former boxing world champion Sarita Devi, Indian women’s football captain Ashalata Devi, and Dronacharya boxing coach Sandhya Gurung. Fit India brand ambassadors Bibhu Moni Singha, Nisha Kumari, Divya Ahuja, and Shyamantak Ganguly also participated in the rally.

The sports complex thrummed with energy as yoga and dance performances added a festive atmosphere to the morning. Personnel from the ITBP, BSF, and CRPF cheered on participants, while popular Hindi music kept the mood high. A special demonstration of kudo, a Japanese martial art, by 32 athletes from Assam’s Sivasagar district further enhanced the festivities.

Chetri, who captained the Indian hockey team at the 2012 London Olympics, commended the initiative, which celebrated its 60th edition nationwide. “What other platform in the world promotes fitness in this manner? The government cannot visit every household to encourage physical fitness. This is a remarkable nationwide platform to enhance awareness for all age groups. Now it is our responsibility to embrace a healthy lifestyle. The government is certainly doing its part,” said Chetri, who operates a hockey academy in Kalimpong, West Bengal.

Echoing similar sentiments, Dronacharya boxing coach Gurung from Gangtok stated, “Fitness and cleanliness are habits developed by individuals. ‘Sundays on Cycle’ serves as a catalyst to promote improved health and life. This is a nationwide initiative, akin to several other projects aimed at societal betterment.”

Ashalata, a distinguished figure in women’s football who has played over 100 international matches, was heartened by the turnout. “It was wonderful to see so many young people dedicating their time to cycling on a Sunday. At least parents are beginning to recognize that there is life beyond just pursuing careers as doctors or engineers,” commented Ashalata.

In summary, the event harmoniously blended fitness, celebration, and community spirit, making it a truly unforgettable Sunday in Guwahati.