As the first rays of dawn illuminated the sacred precincts of Prasanthi Nilayam, nearly 20,000 participants gathered at the Sri Sathya Sai Hill View Stadium, creating a magnificent spectacle of unity, enthusiasm, and devotion. Men, women, youth, children, students, and senior citizens came together to mark the grand finale of the nationwide Sri Sathya Sai Run & Ride, organised by the Sri Sathya Sai Seva Organisations, India.
Inspired by the Fit India Movement of the Government of India, the initiative transformed fitness into a sacred offering, encouraging healthier lifestyles while fostering unity, discipline, and selfless service. Conducted across 46 cities with the participation of over 120,000 people, the movement culminated in Prasanthi Nilayam, with the Sri Sathya Sai District recording the highest participation in the country.
Following refreshing showers the previous night, the cool morning provided an ideal setting for the event. The programme commenced at 5:30 a.m. with the ceremonial lighting of the lamp by Mr RJ Rathnakar, Managing Trustee, Sri Sathya Sai Central Trust; Mr Nimish Pandya, All India President, Sri Sathya Sai Seva Organisations, India; Mr Amol Anil Muzumdar, Indian cricket coach and former cricketer; and other dignitaries.
Addressing the gathering, Mr RJ Rathnakar expressed his joy at witnessing the vast assembly and remarked that it would be inspiring to see such a scene in Puttaparthi every day. Echoing Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba’s teaching that “A healthy body leads to a healthy mind,” he reminded everyone that the body is a sacred instrument gifted by God and should be cared for through regular exercise. Recalling Bhagawan’s own example of walking daily, he encouraged everyone to devote at least 15 to 20 minutes each day to physical fitness. He appreciated the Sri Sathya Sai Seva Organisations for organising this meaningful initiative.
In his address, Mr Nimish Pandya offered heartfelt gratitude to Bhagawan, observing that the event was possible only through His divine grace. He noted that the Sri Sathya Sai Run & Ride embodied Bhagawan’s message of “Love All, Serve All” and reflected the spirit of unity by bringing together people from across the nation. Emphasising that the human body is God’s precious gift, he urged everyone to nurture it so that it may become an instrument of selfless service.
Following the inaugural session, Mr RJ Rathnakar ceremonially flagged off the event and joined Mr Nimish Pandya, Mr Amol Anil Muzumdar, and other dignitaries in the cycling ride. Participants enthusiastically completed the 5-kilometre Run & Ride, following the route from the Sri Sathya Sai Hill View Stadium through Yenumulapalli Cross to the petrol bunk before returning to the stadium.
The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from people of all age groups, from young children cycling alongside their families to octogenarians demonstrating that age is no barrier to fitness. The occasion was further graced by the presence of Mr T S Chetan Sham Prasad, IAS, District Collector, and Mr V Satish Kumar, IPS, Superintendent of Police.
Upon returning to the stadium, participants were presented with commemorative medals and refreshments. More than a sporting event, the Sri Sathya Sai Run & Ride stood as a nationwide movement inspired by Bhagawan’s vision of holistic well-being, affirming that true fitness encompasses the harmonious development of the body, mind, and spirit. Every stride taken and every wheel turned reflected the ideals of unity, discipline, and selfless service, making the grand finale a fitting celebration of Bhagawan’s enduring message to humanity.
