Inspirational Pedalling for Mental Health — ‘Ride to Mpower – Mumbai Cyclothon 2025’
Mumbai’s Grandest Cyclothon Dedicated to Mental Health Awareness
The ‘Ride to Mpower – Mumbai Cyclothon 2025’, organised by the Loha Foundation in collaboration with the Sports Authority of India (SAI) under the Fit India Movement, was conducted this morning at the MMRDA Grounds, Bandra–Kurla Complex (BKC) with the magnificent participation of over 6,000 cyclists. First-time riders, seasoned cycling enthusiasts, families, and para-athletes from across the city took part with great enthusiasm, collectively delivering a powerful message in support of mental health awareness.
The grand community ride was flagged off by Bollywood actor and fitness icon Suniel Shetty, veteran actor Jackie Shroff, Shri Krishna Prakash (IPS), Additional Director General, Force One & Training (Honorary Race Director), and actress Mahima Chaudhary, marking an inspiring start to the event.
At a time when mental health challenges—especially among the youth—are on the rise across the country, collective initiatives such as this cyclothon are catalysing a renewed wave of awareness. Mpower, India’s leading mental health organisation working under the guidance of Mrs. Neerja Birla, used this platform to encourage open conversations around emotional well-being, reduce the stigma surrounding mental illnesses, and highlight the importance of seeking timely help. The cyclothon effectively underscored the intrinsic link between physical and mental health, demonstrating how community-driven fitness initiatives can foster positive social change.
A major highlight of the event was the release of a commemorative Special Cancellation Stamp by India Post. The stamp was unveiled by Suniel Shetty, Mahima Chaudhary, choreographer Bosco Martis, ADG Krishna Prakash, Shri Pandurang Chate, Regional Director, Sports Authority of India, and Ms. Deepshikha Birla, Head – North Division, India Post. This special stamp, symbolising the initiative’s official contribution to mental health awareness, is available exclusively today at the GPO, Fort. 
The cyclothon featured five categories — 100 km, 50 km, 25 km, 10 km, and a special wheelchair ride. All participants received custom cycling jerseys, finisher medals, e-timing certificates, personal photographs, hydration support, and robust medical assistance along the route provided by HN Reliance Hospital. The venue also hosted mental health awareness kiosks, Zumba sessions, live music, a healthy breakfast zone, and the popular Charity BIB initiative to raise funds for Mpower’s mental health programmes.
Ride for your mind.
Ride for your city.
Ride for change.
On behalf of the race organising committee, Mrs. Sanjana Lall, President – Loha Foundation, and Ravindra Wani, Race Organiser & Managing Director – Champ Endurance, expressed heartfelt gratitude to all sponsors, the cycling fraternity, volunteers, and medical partners for their unwavering support in making the event a grand success
About Mpower
Supported by the Aditya Birla Education Trust, Mpower is one of India’s premier comprehensive mental health initiatives, founded by globally recognised mental health advocate Mrs. Neerja Birla. Mpower is committed to building a compassionate and supportive ecosystem that offers professional help, acceptance, and treatment to individuals and caregivers battling mental health concerns, free from stigma or discrimination. Through multidisciplinary interventions, holistic treatment approaches, and extensive awareness campaigns, Mpower strives to eradicate stigma, promote timely intervention, and accelerate rehabilitation. Its clinical network currently operates in Mumbai, Bengaluru, Goa, and Pilani.
https://mpowerminds.com
By Sunder M
