On Sunday morning, the JLN Stadium in New Delhi buzzed with energy as around 1,000 cyclists and fitness enthusiasts participated in the 26th edition of Fit India Sundays on Cycle. This event, organized in partnership with Indian Railways, featured notable guests including actress Madhurima Tuli, wrestler Anirudh Kumar, and mountaineer Narender Kumar.

Madhurima Tuli, recognized for her role in the Bollywood film 'Baby' alongside Akshay Kumar, was honored as a Fit India Icon by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports. A former state-level track and field athlete, she expressed her appreciation for the recognition, stating, “I feel privileged to be here. Cycling has been a passion of mine since childhood. Our Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Sports Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya have rightly highlighted the health risks associated with obesity. Cycling is not only economical but also liberating and beneficial for mental well-being.”

This edition of the event saw a significant increase in participation, with railway officials and athletes from the railways joining in. The cycling activities were organized by various Khelo India Centres (KICs), Khelo India State Centres of Excellence (KISCEs), SAI Training Centres (STCs), Khelo India Accredited Academies (KIAAs), Regional Centres (RCs), National Centres of Excellence (NCOEs), and over 2,600 cycling clubs nationwide, engaging railway employees and officials to ensure the event's success.

The fitness activities spanned from Alwar to Tinsukia and Kurukshetra to Bolpur, featuring Zumba, yoga, and rope skipping sessions led by My Bharat, the Rope Skipping Federation of India, and Yogasana Bharat.

Wrestler Anirudh Kumar, who recently secured gold at the 2024 U23 & U17 Asian Championships, emphasized the importance of such initiatives for the youth. He remarked, “Cycling has been a part of my life since I was young. It enhances stamina, builds strength, and aids in fat loss. It’s inspiring to see so many young individuals embracing fitness today.”

Mountaineer Narender Kumar, currently training for his expedition to Mount Elbrus, Europe’s highest peak, praised the movement as a powerful national initiative. He stated, “The call from PM Narendra Modi has resonated throughout India. It’s uplifting to witness the youth engaging in this movement, steering clear of distractions and addictions. The enthusiasm and passion of young Indians are propelling this initiative forward.”

Launched in December 2024, the Fit India Sundays on Cycle initiative has already reached over 350,000 citizens across more than 10,000 locations nationwide. Starting with just around 150 cyclists, the participation has dramatically increased in just six months, thanks to the support from partners like the CISF, Armed Forces, Indian Medical Association, journalist associations, educators, corporate entities, celebrities, and various professionals from diverse fields.