Udaipur, 31 August (Udaipur Kiran) . From the historic land of Mewar, the message of Fit India echoed powerfully on Sunday. The occasion was the Cyclothon and Marathon organized on the National Sports Day under the Fit India Movement, an initiative of the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, Government of India. The event, held on the picturesque banks of Fatehsagar Lake, was supported by the administration, Udaipur Development Authority, and the Regional Sports Training Center.

Olympic Medallist Minister Joins the Ride

The special guest of the event was Colonel Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore, Olympic medalist and Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports as well as Industry & Commerce. Rajya Sabha MP Chunnilal Garasia and Lok Sabha MP Dr. Mannalal Rawat also attended as guests. Minister Rathore himself participated in the cyclothon, cycling the entire route and motivating the participants. His presence energized players, youth, children, and the citizens of Udaipur alike.

Grand Start at Fatehsagar

The three-day sports festival under Fit India Movement kicked off from the Motimangri Gate at Fatehsagar. From early morning, players, students from schools and colleges, officers, trainers, and citizens started gathering for the event. At exactly 7:30 am, Minister Rathore arrived on his cycle, greeted with patriotic cheers from the youth. He was welcomed by Divisional Commissioner Ms. Pragya Kevalramani, District Collector Namit Mehta, UDA Commissioner Rahul Jain, and other dignitaries.

Flag-Off and Participation

Minister Rathore, along with other dignitaries, flagged off the cyclothon and marathon from Motimangri Gate. They also joined the cyclothon, which traversed the Fatehsagar pal, UDA Circle, Saheliyon Ki Bari, Vidyabhavan School, and Devli to finish at Taya Palace, covering about 3.5 km. The marathon route extended from Motimangri to Taya Palace via Fatehsagar overflow.

“Make Good Choices for Yourself” – Rathore’s Message

Addressing the closing ceremony at Taya Palace, Minister Rathore praised participants for being proactive about their health, saying, “Those who are aware of their health don’t need messages—they themselves inspire others.” He urged everyone to stay healthy and happy by making positive choices and keeping good company. Rathore emphasized adopting sports in daily life to stay fit, in line with the theme of Fit India.

MP Garasia and Dr. Rawat welcomed the minister to Udaipur and thanked the government for its efforts to develop sports. Dr. Rawat also announced the upcoming MP Sports Festival from 21 September to 25 December, urging more people to participate.

Kayaking and Canoeing Enthrall Spectators

During the event, national and international-level athletes showcased their kayaking and canoeing skills in Fatehsagar Lake. Minister Rathore cheered the athletes and even participated in dragon boat rowing. He also encouraged young skaters present at the venue.

Broad Participation Across Sectors

The event saw participation from Additional District Collector Deependra Singh Rathore, Udaipur Rifle Association President Veermadev Singh, cyclist Rishabh Jain, para-cyclist Govind, officials and teams from Mohanlal Sukhadia University, Pacific University, LakeTrip Cycling Association, Hotel Association, Marble Association, all sports coaches, students from various government and private institutions, Mewar Tourism Club, and district sports associations. Dr. Devilal Garg conducted the event.