CNN Central News & Network–ITDC India Epress/ITDC News Bhopal: A unique spectacle of fitness enthusiasm and youthful energy was witnessed at the brightly illuminated TT Nagar Stadium when Ravindranath Tagore University (RNTU) organised the grand event, Velocity Night Run 2026. Held for the first time in Bhopal, the distinctive night run saw enthusiastic participation from a large number of runners, fitness lovers, players, students and youth. The event sent a strong message in support of health awareness, fitness and sports culture.
The chief guest at the programme was Madhya Pradesh Sports and Youth Welfare Minister Vishvas Kailash Sarang, while the special guest was Anshuman Yadav, Director, Madhya Pradesh Sports and Youth Welfare Department. The guests flagged off the night run and encouraged the participants.
A key highlight of the programme was the participation of more than 700 people. Children aged 8 to senior citizens up to 70 years took part in the run with full enthusiasm and energy, demonstrating their commitment to fitness. The presence of participants from different age groups turned the event into not just a running competition, but a public movement for health awareness and an active lifestyle. People present at the stadium loudly cheered both the young runners and the senior participants, making the atmosphere even more inspiring and energetic.
The attractive lighting at the stadium, energetic music, the rhythm of thousands of footsteps and the participants’ enthusiasm transformed the entire atmosphere into a celebration. In the competition, participants displayed remarkable endurance, discipline and fitness in different categories of 1 hour, 2 hours and 3 hours. The designated track lanes and well-organised arrangements during the run made the event safe and successful.
Chief guest Vishvas Sarang said that in today’s time, fitness is not a subject limited only to sportspersons, but an important part of every citizen’s life. He said such innovative events are extremely necessary to connect youth with sports and encourage a healthy lifestyle. Praising Ravindranath Tagore University’s unique initiative of a night run, he said it would help develop a positive outlook towards sports and health among youth.
Special guest Anshuman Yadav said sports are not only a medium of competition, but also a powerful tool for personality development, discipline and leadership. He urged the youth to participate regularly in sports and fitness activities.
On the occasion, Ravindranath Tagore University Pro-Chancellor Aditi Chaturvedi Vats said Velocity Night Run is not just a sports event, but a meaningful initiative towards building a fit and healthy India. “Our objective is to connect youth with sports, fitness and a positive lifestyle so that they can become physically and mentally strong,” she said.
University Registrar Sangeeta Johri said the university has always encouraged sports and health-related activities for the holistic development of students and youth. She said the event not only increases awareness about fitness among youth, but also strengthens team spirit, discipline and self-confidence.
A large number of students, players, fitness enthusiasts and citizens participated in the programme. Many participants described it as one of Bhopal’s most unique sporting events and said the experience of running at night amid the stadium lights was thrilling and inspiring.
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