By: Dr. Avi Verma

The Twin Lake Golf Course turned into a vibrant hub of cultural pride, environmental awareness, and community spirit as hundreds of Indian Americans came together for the Viksit Bharat Run 2025. Organized by the Global Indian Diaspora Foundation (GIDF) with the support of the Consulate General of India in Chicago, the event blended fitness with heritage, highlighting the diaspora’s growing role in shaping India’s vision of Viksit Bharat while contributing to their adopted homeland.

Consul General Somnath Ghosh congratulated attendees on Navratri and Durga Puja, calling the run a symbol of “development, friendship, and inclusivity—honoring both our ancestral roots and our shared future.” Deputy Consul General Kriti Das and Consul Sanjeev Pal also joined the festivities, running alongside community members.

Rakesh Malhotra, President of GIDF, described the event as a living expression of Atmanirbhar Bharat: “This run embodies our commitment to inclusivity, selfless service, and transformative development. It’s about uniting for a peaceful and prosperous world.”

General Secretary Abhinav Raina thanked participants and partners, emphasizing that “the energy of our vibrant diaspora—leaders, families, and volunteers—is what makes such positive change possible, both in our Matrabhoomi and Karmabhoomi.”

The morning opened with soulful renditions of the national anthems of India and the United States, performed by Soham and Saha Kothari. A symbolic tree-planting ceremony, themed Maa Ke Naam and led by Consul General Ghosh, underlined the community’s commitment to environmental stewardship and a greener future.

Leaders from more than a dozen Indian American organizations joined the run, reflecting unity in diversity. Among them were Shirani Nayar (Lake County Indian Association), Namita Vedak (Maharashtra Mandal Chicago), Hemant Patel (Federation of Indian Associations), Dipti Desi (SEWA Chicago), Nirav Patel (AASOA), Amar Upadhyaya (OFBJP Chicago), Ram Saina (Rajasthan Association), Anand Tiwari (Friends of Madhya Pradesh), Nagesh Rai (HUM), Anurag Awasthi (Hariom Gurukul), and Urvashi Kav (Overseas Kashmir Association).

Participants of all ages took part in the run, with special recognition given to the youngest and eldest runners, reinforcing the theme of cross-generational involvement.

The event also drew strong media coverage from  various Indian media, amplifying its message of unity, sustainability, and cultural pride.

By combining health, heritage, and service, the Viksit Bharat Run 2025 set a powerful precedent for future initiatives, showcasing how the Indian American diaspora continues to bridge cultures, nurture traditions, and contribute to both India’s progress and America’s civic life.