USA (Commonwealth Union)_ From Tokyo to Toronto, and Sydney to San Francisco, Indians living abroad came together this week to take part in the first-ever global edition of the Viksit Bharat Run 2025. Held in over 150 cities across more than 100 countries, the community event drew thousands of participants in a celebration of unity, service, and India’s developmental journey. Organised by India’s Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports in partnership with the Ministry of External Affairs, the initiative formed part of the broader Seva Pakhwada celebrations, which run from September 17 to October 2. Themed “Run to Serve the Nation”, the event aimed to build global solidarity around the goal of a Viksit Bharat, or Developed India by 2047. Accordingly, community runs covering 3 to 5 kilometers were held in public parks, waterfronts, and landmark locations around the world.
- The enthusiasm was palpable in cities like Melbourne, Nairobi, Kuala Lumpur, Tokyo, Riyadh, Seoul, and Rome, where runners gathered in large numbers waving Indian flags, wearing themed T-shirts, and holding placards promoting development and sustainability.
- In Dubai, over 500 people gathered at Kite Beach in an event jointly hosted by the Consulate General of India, the Indian People’s Forum, and JITO Dubai. The run drew families, students, professionals, and residents in what organizers described as a celebration of community spirit and pride in India’s progress.
- Meanwhile, in the United States, Indian communities turned out in strength in Washington, D.C., Chicago, and San Francisco. Participants of all ages participated in the race, with many also taking part in associated activities such as tree-planting campaigns as part of the “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” campaign, which promotes both environmental responsibility and cultural values.
- In Colombo, the run kicked off at the scenic Galle Face Green, drawing Indian nationals and Sri Lankan well-wishers alike. The event was led by the High Commission of India in collaboration with local cultural organisations.
- A similar sense of purpose was seen in Perth, where Western Australia’s Indian community gathered at the City of Stirling for a morning of running, reflection, and pledges of commitment to India’s development goals.
- In Beijing, the Indian Embassy reported a strong turnout, with runners expressing a deep sense of connection to India’s future. Local missions worked closely with Indian associations, students, and community groups to coordinate logistics and promote wide participation.
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Individuals representing different regions embraced the Viksit Bharat Pledge and the Atmanirbhar Bharat Pledge, signifying their commitment to a self-sufficient and inclusive Bharat. A number of other individuals accessed the MY Bharat portal, which provides opportunities to actively volunteer and learn from experiences. The global event also coincided with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s 75th birthday, adding symbolic significance to the festivities. According to organizers, the initiative is not just physical fitness; it is also a call to action for youth involvement, civic responsibility, and cultural pride. In all cities, dignitaries and community leaders attended the event as guests of honor, delivering messages of hope and sharing India’s progress in various areas, including education, health, technology, and infrastructure.
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What started as a fitness movement has now evolved into an international display of national pride. The Viksit Bharat Run 2025 brought together Indians from large cities and small communities under the themes of seva (service), sustainability, and unity. The event was held in more than 150 locations across 100 countries and is recognized as one of India’s most extensive global outreach initiatives. It was said that this event would serve as a bridge, allowing Indians and India to participate in future activities. As India prepares to celebrate its 100th anniversary of independence in 2047, the Viksit Bharat Run serves as a powerful reminder that the Indian community is bonded around the world by shared culture, passion, and a vision for the future.
