In a heartfelt celebration of perseverance, strength
and the unyielding human spirit, Fit Bharat Club of Hyderabad Sind
National Collegiate University (HSNC University), Mumbai, a State Public
University successfully organised a 24-hour, 114-kilometre Tribute Run
on the eve of India’s 79th Independence Day. The event honoured the remarkable
life of Fauja Singh (1911–2025), the world’s oldest marathon runner
and an enduring symbol of grit, fitness and longevity.
The run was flagged off from the KC College
campus on 14th August 2025 at 8:00 a.m by Dr. Tejashree
Shanbhag, Principal KC College and concluded 24 hours later, on 15thAugust,
at the University’s Worli campus. Each of the 114 kilometres symbolised a year
of Fauja Singh’s inspiring journey, from a humble farmer in Punjab to a global
fitness icon. Participants ran in loops from KC College to Babulnath before
heading to the finish line at the University.
A total of 27 participants took part, including
students, faculty, alumni and fitness enthusiasts from across the city. Some
ran in teams, while seasoned runners covered longer stretches solo. The event
was marked by camaraderie, determination and shared sense of purpose and where
every step taken served as a heartfelt tribute to Fauja Singh’s
extraordinary legacy.
At the felicitation ceremony, Col. Dr. Hemlata
K. Bagla, Vice Chancellor of HSNC University said, “This special run
dedicated to the legendary Fauja Singh, was a powerful tribute to a man who
defied limitations and inspired generations. Through the Fit Bharat Club, we
are not only promoting academic excellence but also fostering physical and
emotional well-being among our students and staff. It also reinforces an
important message to our students, that holistic growth, encompassing mind,
body and spirit, is the true foundation of meaningful education.”
Dr. Bagla reflected on
the deeper significance of the event, noting that Fauja Singh’s life serves as
a timeless reminder that age is never a barrier when one possesses
determination and strength of heart. She emphasised that the run was not merely
about distance, but about celebrating Singh’s enduring legacy of discipline,
positivity and perseverance. She also highlighted the role of the Fit Bharat
Club as a dynamic platform that channels the energy of the HSNC community into
healthy, purposeful activities. Its initiatives, she said, are a reflection of
the University’s commitment to holistic education, blending intellectual growth
with physical fitness and emotional resilience. Dr. Bagla expressed
deep pride in the dedication, enthusiasm and spirit with which the club
continues to motivate and uplift the HSNC community.
At 8:45 a.m. on Independence Day, the runners
completed their final stretch and returned to a triumphant welcome. They were
warmly felicitated with medals by Vice Chancellor Col. Dr. Hemlata K.
Bagla and Provost Mr. Anil Harish, who commended their
unwavering determination and celebrated the collective spirit that defined the
event.
The felicitation ceremony served as a fitting and
memorable conclusion to the 114 Km Tribute Run, more than just a physical
achievement, it stood as a symbolic tribute to India’s freedom, enduring
resilience and the inspiring legacy of Fauja Singh.
Mr. Mayur Dumasia, Assistant Professor and
participant, said, “This run was a deeply personal experience. Covering 114 km
in 24 hours was tough, but every step reminded me of Fauja Singh’s incredible
grit. His journey shows that endurance is as much mental as it is physical.
Running alongside our students, alumni and colleagues made it truly
unforgettable.”
With this event, HSNC University reaffirmed its
commitment to holistic education, one that nurtures not only the mind, but also
the body and spirit, drawing inspiration from icons like Fauja Singh, who
exemplify fitness, determination and hope.
