The High Commission of India in Colombo, jointly with MY Bharat under the Youth Affairs and Sports Ministry of India, and in collaboration with the Indian Cultural Association, organised the ‘Viksit Bharat Run 2025’ on 28 September, starting from the iconic Galle Face Green in Colombo.
Held simultaneously across over 150 international locations, the event became a truly global celebration of service, fitness, and sustainability.
The run in Colombo reinforced the vision of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, celebrating Viksit Bharat (a Developed India by 2047) and highlighting the deep-rooted bonds of friendship and goodwill between India and Sri Lanka.
The 5km run in Colombo drew enthusiastic participation from the Indian diaspora, Sri Lankan citizens, students, residents of Colombo, and friends of India.
The run was flagged off by the High Commissioner of India to Sri Lanka, Santosh Jha, along with distinguished guests including Youth Affairs and Sports Minister Sunil Kumara Gamage, Energy Minister Kumara Jayakody, Labour Minister and Economic Development Deputy Minister Dr. Anil Jayantha, Youth Affairs Deputy Minister Eranga Gunasekara, Digital Economy Deputy Minister Eranga Weeraratne, and Sports Deputy Minister Sugath Thilakarathne.
Industry leaders, film stars, and social media influencers also joined the event in large numbers. Altogether, over 2,000 participants took part in the run.
Under the theme ‘Run to Serve the Nation’, participants from Colombo came together for the 5 m community run, turning the event into a formidable statement of unity.
More than just a fitness activity, the event celebrated the ideals of the spirit of service.
In his address, Indian High Commissioner Jha called upon the Indian diaspora to rededicate themselves to India’s Swadeshi ethos, highlighting the Prime Minister’s call for self-reliance, inclusivity, and environmental responsibility.
The turnout was remarkable, with around 1,500 runners, 300 volunteers, and numerous community organisations coming together to make the event a grand success.
The run not only brought Colombo closer to India, but also reinforced the shared aspirations of India and Sri Lanka for growth, innovation, and mutual prosperity.
Pledge for a Viksit Bharat
After the 5km run, the Indian Diaspora came together for the collective recitation of the Viksit Bharat and Aatmanirbhar Bharat pledge, committing to contribute to India’s journey towards becoming a developed nation by 2047.
Following the Viksit Bharat Run, Jha, along with officials of the Indian High Commission conducted a cleanliness drive at Galle Face Green, reinforcing the message of Swachhotsav 2025 and the shared commitment to clean and green surroundings.
A green commitment
In addition to the run, the High Commissioner of India, along with ex-Sri Lankan cricket legend Aravinda de Silva, planted trees at India House on 26 September under the ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ (Plant for Mother) campaign, highlighting the connection between personal responsibility and environmental sustainability.
This act served as a living reminder of India’s and Sri Lanka’s shared commitment to building a greener planet.
Diaspora engagement and global partnerships
The Viksit Bharat Run was conducted in collaboration with the enthusiastic support of Indian Diaspora organisations in Sri Lanka. Community groups, cultural bodies, and local sports enthusiasts actively engaged with the High Commission of India in Colombo to make the run a success.
The event reinforced the spirit of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam – ‘the world is one family’.
Members of the Indian Diaspora and friends of India ran together, reaffirming the strong bonds of friendship with India.
A Diaspora Information Kiosk was set up at Galle Face Green during the Viksit Bharat Run, to provide consular assistance and information on Government of India programmes for the Diaspora.
A landmark global celebration
The Viksit Bharat Run 2025, being simultaneously organised in 150 cities across the world, carries a strong message of unity, resilience, and shared responsibility.