Pune (S.N): The historic campus of Savitribai Phule Pune University came alive with enthusiasm, energy, and devotion as the city hosted the ‘Sri Sathya Sai Run & Ride’, a grand initiative commemorating the birth centenary of Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba. Organized by the Sri Sathya Sai Seva Organisation, Maharashtra (West) and supported nationwide by the Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports through Fit India, the event saw overwhelming community participation.
More than 5,000 participants took part in the 3K, 5K, and 10K run and cycling categories, transforming the university grounds into a vibrant celebration of harmony, wellness, and social consciousness. Citizens, youth groups, volunteers, and prominent personalities joined hands to promote unity and collective well-being.
The event was graced by distinguished dignitaries from government, academia, industry, and civic bodies, including;
- Rajan Navani, Chairman & Managing Director, Jetline Group of Companies
- Dharmesh Vaidhya, State President, Sri Sathya Sai Seva Organisation, Maharashtra West
- Capt. Girish Lele, District President, SSSSO Pune
- Prof. Parag Kalkar, Hon. Pro Vice-Chancellor, Savitribai Phule Pune University
- Shri Ravindra Shingapurkar, Member, Management Council
- Prof. D. B. Pawar, Member, Management Council
- Prof. Jyoti Bhakare, Officiating Registrar
- Sucheta Kadethankar, Indian sportsperson
- Richi Mathur, Co-Founder & Vice Chairman, Lighthouse Communities
- Abhishek Ubhe, athlete
- Senior faculty and officials from the Department of Sports and Physical Education
Leaders Speak
Mr. Dharmesh Vaidhya, State President, SSSSO Maharashtra West, said;
“The Sri Sathya Sai Run & Ride is more than an event it is a movement that unites hearts through action. As we celebrate 100 years of Bhagawan’s birth, we continue to uphold his message of selfless love, unity, and service.”
Prof. Parag Kalkar, Pro Vice-Chancellor, SPPU, said;
“Events like these align beautifully with the Fit India vision. It is inspiring to see citizens unite to promote fitness, discipline, devotion, and service.”
Mr. Rajan Navani, CMD, Jetline Group of Companies, highlighted;
“The Run & Ride exemplifies how faith and fitness can create stronger communities. Its essence reflects India’s spirit of unity, inclusivity, and purpose-driven progress.”
Capt. Girish Lele, District President, SSSSO Pune, added;
“The event represents a holistic approach to fitness physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual. It celebrates peace, harmony, and unity in thought, word, and action.”
The event concluded with participants pledging to uphold physical wellness, mental peace, and social harmony.
Continuing the Celebrations;
As part of the birth centenary celebrations, the Sri Sathya Sai Seva Organisation will continue multiple outreach initiatives across Maharashtra. Nationally, the organisation has launched:
- Sri Sathya Sai Prema Pravahini – a nationwide Rath Yatra covering all 28 states and 8 Union Territories, spreading the message of love and unity
- Sri Sathya Sai National Cricket League (SSSNCL) – engaging youth through sport, fostering teamwork, discipline, and service
These initiatives aim to carry forward Bhagawan’s timeless message of harmony, compassion, and selfless service for a stronger and more united society.
