Over 1.39 Lakh Participate in Sri Sathya Sai 5K Run & Ride Across 46 Cities
Puttaparthi, July 26 (TNT): The nationwide Sri Sathya Sai 5K Run & Ride – A Spirit of Unity, organised as part of the Birth Centenary Celebrations of Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba, concluded with a grand finale at Puttaparthi on Sunday.
Over 1.39 lakh people across 46 cities partiicipated in the event.
The concluding event, held at the Sri Sathya Sai Hill View Stadium, witnessed the participation of over 19,000 runners and cyclists, taking the cumulative participation in the nationwide campaign to more than 1.39 lakh.
The event was flagged off by R.J. Rathnakar, Managing Trustee of the Sri Sathya Sai Central Trust, and Nimish Pandya, All India President of the Sri Sathya Sai Seva Organisations, India.
The programme began with Vedic chanting, lighting of the ceremonial lamp, yoga and drill sessions, followed by the ceremonial lighting of the Unity Run Torch.
Among those present were former Indian cricketer Amol Mazumdar, Sri Sathya Sai District Collector A. Shyam Prasad, Joint Collector Mantri M. Bharadwaj, Superintendent of Police S. Satish Kumar and Puttaparthi RDO P. Suvarna. Himavahni Rathnakar flagged off the women’s run and ride.
Addressing the gathering, Rathnakar said maintaining good health was essential for a healthy mind and urged people to dedicate at least 15 to 20 minutes every day to physical exercise.
Quoting Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba’s teachings, he described the human body as a sacred instrument that should be cared for through regular physical activity.
Recalling a personal experience, Rathnakar said Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba himself used to walk for about 45 minutes daily, setting an example on the importance of physical fitness.
He also lauded the nationwide response to the Run & Ride initiative and expressed hope that such programmes would continue to inspire people towards healthier lifestyles.
In his address, Nimish Pandya said the event reflected Bhagawan’s universal message of “Love All, Serve All” by bringing together people from diverse backgrounds.
He said a healthy body, healthy mind and noble spirit were essential for meaningful living and selfless service to society.
Participants included youth, women, students, professionals, senior citizens and devotees from across the country. The 5-km route passed through the main roads of Puttaparthi before culminating at the Hill View Stadium amid devotional songs and enthusiastic support from volunteers and devotees.
Organisers said elaborate arrangements, including medical assistance, ambulance services, hydration points, traffic management and security, were made for the event.
Hundreds of Sai Seva Dal volunteers ensured the smooth conduct of the programme.
Participants were presented with finisher medals and refreshments after the event.
Organisers described the Run & Ride as a nationwide movement promoting physical fitness, unity, spirituality and selfless service while carrying forward Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba’s message of “Love All – Serve All” and “Help Ever – Hurt Never.”
TNT KM
