Sports Minister Mandaviya Leads Nationwide Commonwealth Games Day Celebrations With Fit India Cycling Rally

India celebrated Commonwealth Games Day with nationwide fitness events across 8,000 locations, symbolising unity and sporting spirit. The central event in Ahmedabad was led by Mandaviya, Gujarat Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghvi, and actor Ayushmann Khurrana, alongside Olympians and Commonwealth Games medallists.

Ahmedabad Celebrations

The Sabarmati Riverfront hosted a 5 km cycling rally, yoga sessions, and zumba demonstrations. Mandaviya inaugurated a Commonwealth Games-themed exhibition showcasing India’s sporting achievements, infrastructure growth under the Khelo India Mission, and preparations for the centenary Commonwealth Games in 2030. The event also featured kabaddi, pickleball, box cricket, and tug of war, creating a festival-like atmosphere. 

Nationwide Participation

The 75th edition of Fit India Sundays on Cycle united citizens across states and union territories. Events were held at SAI Regional Centres, National Centres of Excellence, and Khelo India Centres, with Olympians and CWG medallists joining local celebrations. This symbolic spread took the Commonwealth Games spirit from stadiums to grassroots communities. 

Minister’s Vision

Mandaviya emphasised that the 2030 Commonwealth Games in Ahmedabad will be a landmark moment for India. He described cycling as a movement that promotes fitness, reduces pollution, and saves fuel, aligning with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s appeal for sustainable living. He pledged more community-driven initiatives to raise public participation ahead of the Games. 

Athlete Perspectives

Olympic bronze medallist Gagan Narang highlighted the excitement of competing at home, calling CWG a stepping stone to the Olympics. Other athletes, including Gurjit Kaur, Rajani Etimarpu, Sonika Tandi, Anjum Moudgil, and Ankur Mittal, joined the celebrations, inspiring young participants. 

Celebration Highlights

•⁠  ⁠75th edition of Fit India Sundays on Cycle marked Commonwealth Games Day

•⁠  ⁠Central event at Sabarmati Riverfront, Ahmedabad, with 5 km cycling rally

•⁠  ⁠Inauguration of Commonwealth Games-themed exhibition showcasing India’s sporting achievements

•⁠  ⁠Over 8,000 locations nationwide hosted fitness and cycling events

•⁠  ⁠Participation by Olympians, CWG medallists, and Bollywood actor Ayushmann Khurrana

•⁠  ⁠Focus on preparations for 2030 Commonwealth Games in Ahmedabad

Sources: Hindustan Times, United News of India, Rediff, Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports (PIB release)