London, September 28
The Viksit Bharat Run was organised in Harrow on Sunday, bringing together members of the Indian diaspora and local residents in a celebration of fitness, unity, and cultural pride. The event was held in association with Grays Community and supported by the High Commission of India.
High Commissioner of India to the United Kingdom, Vikram Doraiswami, stated that the purpose of the event was to highlight the spirit of service and the contributions of Indians abroad.
"The idea was to emphasise the spirit of service and the notion that a cohesive community that contributes to society and is driven by the commitment to serve India but also to commit to serve the country where they live... Thereby, to build the image of the Indian community as a community that contributes wherever it goes and as a community that serves everywhere it goes," he told ANI.
The run saw enthusiastic participation from across the community.
Speaking to ANI, a participant wearing Viksit Bharat run T-shirt said, "As soon as we came to know that a race was being held here under the 'Seva Pakhwada,' we came here and participated in the race... We request everyone to participate in the race with great enthusiasm."
UK MP Bob Blackman, who joined the event, praised the Indian community for its active role in society. "I am delighted to be here as we've had the fun run to encourage people to actively participate in physical activity... This is all important about celebrating the Indian contribution not only to Harrow but to the entirety of the United Kingdom," he added.
At the run, Blackman was also seen wearing the Vikist Bharat T-shirt.
The event added to the ongoing 'Seva Pakhwada' activities, which commenced on September 17, on Prime Minister Narendra Modi's birthday.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Great initiative! Fitness plus community service - what a wonderful combination. Hope to see more such events promoting Indian values globally. The diaspora truly represents the best of India abroad.
As someone who has worked with the Indian community in London, I can confirm they are among the most hardworking and community-oriented people. Events like these strengthen cultural bonds and promote healthy living. Well organized!
While I appreciate the sentiment, I wish such events would focus more on actual community service projects rather than just symbolic runs. The real contribution happens through sustained social work, not one-day events.
This makes me emotional! Our NRIs are true ambassadors of India. They maintain our culture while contributing to their host countries. More power to them! ðŸ™
Love seeing the UK MP participating and wearing the Viksit Bharat T-shirt! This shows how much our community is valued internationally. The Indian diaspora is truly making us proud everywhere.
The Indian community in Harrow has always been exceptional - from business owners to doctors to community volunteers. This event perfectly captures their spirit of giving back. Great to see cross-cultural participation too!
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