Mandaviya leads Fit India cycling event

New Delhi

Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya led the latest “Fit India Sundays on Cycle” event at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, continuing the nationwide push for health and fitness. The event followed the successful celebration of International Yoga Day on June 21 and is part of a larger fitness drive under the Fit India Movement.

The event saw participation from celebrities and athletes, including new Fit India Ambassador and actress Mia Maelzer, Olympian racewalker Priyanka Goswami, ex-hockey captain Rani Rampal, taekwondo champion Rodali Barua, and actress Madhurima Tuli. All stressed the importance of fitness and cycling for health and the environment.

Mandaviya praised the growing momentum, saying over one crore people joined Yoga Day events across 6,000 locations. “Cycling today, yoga yesterday, Olympic Day tomorrow—India’s fitness journey is unstoppable,” he added.

The movement also reached Pandharpur, Maharashtra, where over 5,000 people cycled, and 90 cycling clubs joined. Minister Raksha Khadse called the event a symbol of development, tradition, and fitness.

Maelzer called cycling her “butterfly moment,” connecting it to clean air and youth energy. Goswami reminded all Indians to stay active with at least 30 minutes of daily exercise. Rani Rampal said cycling builds discipline and sets a strong example for the youth.

Rodali Barua linked the event with India’s Olympic goals, calling it ideal for busy professionals. Started in December 2024, “Fit India Sundays on Cycle” has reached 10,500+ locations and over 3.75 lakh people, supported by Khelo India and other national fitness centres.