Imagine city streets usually choked with traffic transforming into vibrant corridors of community, fitness, and celebration every Sunday morning. That’s the vision behind “Sundays on Cycle”, a flagship initiative under the Fit India Movement that’s rapidly becoming a model for urban well-being across the country. Launched in late 2024 by the Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports, this nationwide movement is not just about cycling—it’s about reclaiming urban spaces for people, promoting sustainable transport, and building a culture of community fitness

From Streets to Spirit: The Rise of a Fitness Revolution

What began with a few hundred cyclists in Delhi’s Major Dhyan Chand Stadium now spans 3,500+ locations across India, with iconic rides taking place at the Gateway of India in Mumbai, Marine Drive, and central venues in cities like Faridabad, Ahmedabad, and Bengaluru.

Led by Union Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, the campaign brings together fitness enthusiasts, government officers, youth icons, and everyday citizens every Sunday morning. His message is clear: “Fit citizens build a stronger India.”

Joining him have been prominent faces like wellness expert Mickey Mehta, designer-activist Shaina NC, national

athletes, civil servants, and local influencers who lend credibility and passion to the initiative.

Community, Celebration & Country

One of the standout editions of the campaign was the Tiranga Cycling Rally held in Delhi in June 2025, celebrating World Bicycle Day and honoring India’s armed forces. Over 1,500 cyclists including Olympians, actors like Sharvari, and fitness ambassadors rode in unity, waving the tricolor in a powerful show of patriotism and public health advocacy. At Mumbai’s Marine Drive, more than 500 cyclists joined a rally from Gateway to Chowpatty. The vibrant atmosphere—filled with slogans, music, and smiles—transformed fitness into a weekly celebration.

While health is at the heart of “Sundays on Cycle,” its benefits go far beyond fitness. It addresses multiple urban challenges:

• Air pollution & traffic: By promoting cycling as a viable commute option, it pushes for greener, quieter cities.
• Obesity & sedentary lifestyles: Through accessible, social, and low-impact rides, it reintroduces movement into urban routines.

Community building: The initiative connects citizens of all ages, backgrounds, and cities under one shared purpose. From senior citizens to children, participation cuts across generations—emphasizing that fitness is a lifelong pursuit.

Local Action, National Momentum

Fit India ambassadors, government officials, and civil society leaders have taken up the torch locally. In Faridabad, IRS officer Narendra Yadav led a rally of 150+ participants, including yoga experts and athletes. In Pune and Ahmedabad, city officials collaborate with cycling clubs and residents to ensure rides are safe and consistent.

Special collaborations, like with Indian Railways and GST departments, have brought further visibility—highlighting national unity through fitness.

The Road Ahead: Scalable, Sustainable, Transformative

“Sundays on Cycle” is now exploring expansions like weekday rides, Fit India Carnivals, and city-specific wellness summits. The integration of digital platforms, social media engagement, and local volunteering is making it not just scalable—but replicable globally.

Urban planners are now paying attention: could this model inspire the redesign of cities to prioritize pedestrians and cyclists? Early signs are hopeful.

A Movement in Motion

At its core, Sundays on Cycle is more than a weekend activity—it’s a symbol of transformation. It shows how simple ideas, when backed by vision, policy, and community, can reshape the way cities live and breathe.

As part of MetroCity India’s Urban Innovators series, this movement stands tall as a shining example of how health, sustainability, and togetherness can become the new urban lifestyle. And every time those pedals turn, so does the momentum toward a fitter, greener India.