Prioritize wellness for true prosperity - Ahalawat

Keep running, keep walking, keep doing yoga and meditation, and at least spend 30 minutes daily on yourself for your growth, prosperity, and well-being.

These were the advice of Amit Ahalawat, the winner of the Viksit Bharat Run, an event organised by the Indian High Commission and ICCR which celebrates the growth and wellness of India and its people.

Ahalawat, who is the Regional Head of IT at Digicel Pacific, expressed his pleasure in being part of the event.

He commended the organizers for their significant role in promoting the nation’s growth and contributing to the health and well-being of communities not only in India but also in Fiji, and across the globe.

He also reflected on a recent wellness and Ayurveda event at the Indian High Commission where experts discussed mental health challenges affecting nearly one billion people worldwide, according to WHO data.

He says stress from personal, professional, and social pressures is a reality of modern life, but they can be managed through activities like running, walking, yoga, and meditation.

High Commissioner of India to Fiji, Suneet Mehta says the Viksit Bharat Run is being organised across 150 countries across the world as part of Seva Pakhwada, which marks a fortnight dedicated to service, responsibility, and collective effort, reflecting the spirit of service.

He says despite the windy weather, almost a hundred people had gathered to participate in the 5km community run, under the theme "Run to Serve the Nation."

Minister for Women Sashi Kiran says this event is not just about running to make a difference in nation building; it is about moving together with a shared purpose.

She says Fiji shares a very special relationship with India and our ties go back over a century, rooted in history, culture, and shared values.

She adds that the Indian diaspora in Fiji has contributed enormously to nation-building, economic growth, and cultural life.

The Minister says events such as the Viksit Bharat Run strengthen these bonds, offering platforms for collaboration, youth leadership, and community engagement that benefit both nations.

She encourages young people to engage, innovate, and contribute to the progress of our societies, while building global networks rooted in friendship and shared purpose.