12th October 2025, Badri Mohalla, Vadodara. 7 am, Sunday: The spirit of Mahatma Gandhi came alive on the streets of Vadodara in a vibrant and impactful event organized by the Alavi Riders, celebrating the timeless pillars of Unity, Peace, Equality, Brotherhood, Freedom, and Nationality. Commemorating Gandhi Jayanti, this community initiative beautifully blended the Mahatma's message of peace with the Honourable Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi's Fit India Movement, culminating in a grand celebration that was hailed by citizens and authorities alike.

The event was graciously flagged off by His Holiness Aqaa Maulaa Dr. Syedna Haatim Zakiyuddin saheb (TUS), who has always been a stalwart advocate of Gandhian principles. Maulaa (TUS) reiterated, “Gandhiji is the architect and soul of our Free and Peaceful India. Peace is the heart of our Nation's progress and prosperity.” He was joined at the inauguration by esteemed dignitaries including a senior DCP of Vadodara Police and a prominent social worker, whose presence underscored the event's significant community and social message.

The morning air buzzed with energy as over 300 enthusiastic cyclists from the Alavi Riders embarked on a 7 KM 'Cyclothon', zooming through the city's important landmarks till Kala Ghoda bridge symbolizing endurance, commitment, and collective enthusiasm. Their slogan, "Pedal for Peace", resonated powerfully, promoting cycling as a sustainable mode of transport and a cornerstone of a fit lifestyle.

In a groundbreaking and inspiring display, nearly 300+ women of the Alavi Bohra community participated in a 1.5 KM 'Walkathon', adorned in elegant pink ridaas. The "Walk for Peace" was a moving spectacle, symbolizing a powerful message of health, women's empowerment, and a collective stand against breast cancer. Their dignified march from Badri Mohalla to Pratapnagar and back demonstrated the undeniable role of women in building a peaceful and progressive society, breaking barriers and stepping out with a purpose to advocate for healthy living, social safety, and national unity.

The event received widespread acclaim and appreciation from various quarters. The Vadodara Police Commissionerate and the attending DCP Abhishek Gupta commended the Alavi Riders for organizing a perfectly disciplined and impactful event that promoted civic sense, health, and community harmony. They particularly praised the unprecedented and respectful participation of the women, noting it as a model for community-led initiatives.

In a moment of immense pride for the entire community, the Alavi Riders were honoured with a prestigious award from the Government authorities. They were recognized as the "Riders of Sunday" for their consistent efforts in promoting cycling and their significant contribution to the Fit India Movement since 8 September 2024, the date of its inception. This accolade is a testament to the relentless spirit of the community's youth and their commitment to national causes.

The President of Alavi Riders, Mukaasir Maulaa Saiyedi Mohammad Nuruddin Saheb, who revived the cycling spirit among the community youth, shared his vision: “Cycling for Fitness or any other physical activity is not the matter of a day or limited to some event, but it should be a continuous effort to keep oneself afloat, active, and energetic in daily life. Cut short your screen time and let yourself out for cycle time to reboot and reorganize your mind.”

The event concluded on a high note with attractions that celebrated participation across all ages, including gifts for the oldest and youngest cyclists, lucky draws, gift hampers, medals, and special honours for cyclists above 65 years of age in a gesture of appreciation celebrating their spirit of involvement and perseverance.. The overwhelming success of this event has set a new benchmark for community participation, proving that when a community comes together with a noble cause, it can pedal and walk its way to a healthier, more peaceful, and united India - "Incredible Nation with Diversity, Inclusiveness and Asceticism".

With over 900 Alavi Mumineen participating — including riders, walkers, volunteers, and onlookers — the event stood as a shining example of how faith, fitness, and fellowship can come together in harmony. The Alavi Riders’ Cyclothon and Walkathon 2025 was not just a sporting event, but a celebration of health, awareness and togetherness, marking yet another milestone in the community’s ongoing journey of progress and purpose.