Milind Soman has initiated the ‘The Unity Run’, to spread the message on the importance of fitness, especially during such difficult times.
Beginning this independence day, Soman will kickstart his 8 days long run-on foot from Shivaji Park, Mumbai and will end the run at the Statue of Unity at Sardar Sarovar Dam, Kevadia.
The principal sponsor for this event is Union Bank, in association with Fitbit, Apis Himalaya Honey, Fuljilm, Carrera, Figaro and Sogood.
Commenting on The Unity Run, Soman says, “I am all set for the solo Unity Run on the occasion of the 75th Year of India's Independence and urge my fellow citizens to actively work towards unity, peace and harmony of our country in any way they can. I have always believed in the message of health and fitness for all, even through my participation in long distance events in the past whether it was triathlons like Ironman and Ultraman or running from Delhi to Mumbai or Ahmedabad to Mumbai. I believe the country can be united through common goals of running, walking, health and fitness and the thought behind Unity Run is to manifest this very message.”
Venkatesh M, General Manager, Corporate Communications, Union Bank of India, adds, "We take great pride to be associated with ‘The Unity Run’ and spread the message that our ‘first wealth is health’. We believe that this ‘Unity Run’ will inspire people to begin their fitness journey and together fight against any looming health issues caused due to the pandemic. At Union Bank, we will continue to support such endeavors as we understand the role sports play in building social bonds and community spirit.”
Koji Wada, Managing Director, Fujifilm India mentions, “On this momentous day of the 75th Independence anniversary, it gives us immense pride to be the healthcare Imaging partners for The Unity Run. Our country, the land of cultures and diversity for long has symbolized what we can achieve collectively. Ahead of the 75th Independence Day, we are creating a nation that is gearing up for a new cause i.e. healthy and wholesome. It is our constant commitment to introduce world-class technologies in the field of diagnostics and healthcare in India. With the run today, we are proud to be associated with the fitness icon Mr. Milind Soman and create a movement towards healthy and fit India.”
Pankaj Mishra, CEO, Apis India says, “The courage, strength and commitment that Milind possesses is commendable. His fitness journey is an inspiration to all of us. As a company that believes in promoting a healthier lifestyle with our products complementing this, we are proud to have been associated with Milind as the Brand Ambassador for Apis Himalaya Honey and along with that for the Unity run as well”
A fitness enthusiast, Soman goes on to describe his love for running and how regular physical exercise benefits both the body and mind at a time like this. He adds, "India doesn't have a strong culture of sports or health. I started running 20 years back. I want to let people know that more than exercising, it makes you happy. It is a natural form of activity that doesn't require any equipment."
With this initiative, he brings attention to accept each other, build harmony and unity. He urges to take responsibility of one's own health, along with family's health. "Challenge is in the mind. Be strong mentally," he suggests.