More than 500 runners and volunteers gathered at Dubai’s Kite Beach today for the Viksit Bharat Run, part of a worldwide initiative engaging Indian communities across 150 locations in 91 countries under the Seva Pakhwada celebrations.

The event was organized by the Consulate General of India in Dubai, the Indian People’s Forum, and JITO Dubai, drawing enthusiastic participation from both the Indian diaspora and local residents.

Shri Satish Sivan, Consul General of India in Dubai and chief guest at the five-kilometer community run, administered the Viksit Bharat pledge.

The run was part of a global series of events organized by India’s Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports in partnership with the Ministry of External Affairs.

Held from September 17 to October 2 under the theme “Run to Serve the Nation,” the initiative seeks to strengthen bonds between Indians abroad and their homeland while promoting civic and community participation.

Participants in Dubai recited the Viksit Bharat and Aatmanirbhar Bharat pledge, reaffirming their commitment to contribute to India’s vision of becoming a developed nation by 2047.

The diverse turnout reflected the strength of Dubai’s Indian community and its eagerness to play a role in this collective endeavor.

The Viksit Bharat Run has emerged as a platform for diaspora engagement and youth mobilization, uniting communities across cities from London and Paris to New York, Moscow, and Riyadh.

The initiative highlights the ethos of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam the world is one family,while showcasing the diaspora’s pride in its heritage and its active support for India’s developmental journey.