Despite overcast skies and steady drizzle, the spirit of fitness prevailed as more than 300 cycling enthusiasts gathered at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in New Delhi on May 25, 2025, to join Union Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya for a special edition of Sundays on Cycle. With journalists and media professionals as special invitees, the event was a celebration not only of physical well-being but also of the everyday heroes behind the headlines.
Dr. Mandaviya, known for his proactive promotion of health and wellness, led the four-kilometre ride, joined by members of the Delhi Journalist Association, Delhi Sports Journalist Association, athletes, and citizens. Addressing the gathering, he expressed deep appreciation for the tireless work of media professionals, noting how they work round-the-clock, often at the cost of their own health. “Journalists are the frontline warriors of information. Their dedication brings the news to our homes each day, and it is only fair we remind them—and ourselves—that staying fit is essential for all, especially those under constant professional pressure,” he said.
The event carried a message that was both simple and powerful: fitness is for everyone. Dr. Mandaviya highlighted how initiatives like Sundays on Cycle, under the Fit India Movement and supported by the Sports Authority of India, serve as gentle nudges for all to take out time for health. “Even just 30 minutes of activity like walking or cycling can have a huge impact,” he urged.
Among the notable participants was Taekwondo Asian Championship medalist Ms. Rodali Barua, who emphasized the importance of daily exercise and healthy eating. “This initiative is a wonderful way to bring people together for a shared cause—our health. Cycling, like any form of movement, has the power to transform lives,” she said.
The enthusiasm among media professionals was palpable. Shri Rakesh Thapliyal, President of the Delhi Journalist Association, thanked the Minister for the thoughtful invitation, noting how such events provide both relaxation and motivation. Shri Abhishek Tripathi, President of the Delhi Sports Journalist Association, humorously noted how a short ride left many out of breath—an eye-opening moment about the importance of regular fitness.
Beyond Delhi, the cycling movement echoed across the country. In Agartala, over 120 cyclists joined a rally led from Ujjayanta Palace, with the Governor of Tripura and Minister Shri Tinku Roy participating. The ride, supported by the Agartala Cycloholics Foundation and led by Bicycle Mayor Shri Gopesh Debnath, symbolized a push for a healthier, united community.
In Bengaluru, 70 media professionals took to the roads from SAI STC, joined by leaders of the Media Federation of India. In Kokrajhar, the six-kilometre rally to the Bodoland Secretariat featured former international badminton player Mrs. Bibari Brahma, while STC Raipur saw a small but spirited turnout led by regional media leaders.
Since its inception in December 2024, Sundays on Cycle has reached over 5,500 locations and engaged more than three lakh citizens. Its popularity has grown with enthusiastic endorsements from sports and entertainment icons such as Sania Mirza, Milind Soman, Emraan Hashmi, John Abraham, Imtiaz Ali, Shankar Mahadevan, and Dara Singh—all lending their voices to champion fitness for all.
What began as a modest movement has evolved into a nationwide wave of awareness, proving that even in the hustle of modern life, there is room for wellness. As the wheels keep turning and the message spreads, Sundays on Cycle is becoming more than just an event—it is a movement, powered by people and pedalled by purpose.