Consulate General of India, Chicago
Post Event Press Release - Viksit Bharat Run, 2025
Chicago, USA [28 September 2025]

 The Consulate General of India, Chicago, jointly with MY Bharat, under the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, Government of India, successfully organised the Viksit Bharat Run 2025 on 28 September 2025. Held simultaneously across over 150 international locations, the event became a truly global celebration of service, fitness, and sustainability. The run in Twin Lakes, Palatine Frontage Rd, Palatine, IL -60067 drew enthusiastic participation from the Indian diaspora, local communities, students, professionals, and friends of India. 

The run was held as part of Seva Pakhwada (17 September - 2 October) and reflected the transformative progress India has achieved in areas such as infrastructure, healthcare, technology, education, and sustainability under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi. The community in Chicago reaffirmed its commitment to the Prime Minister’s vision of Viksit Bharat, a developed India, by joining the run. 

Under the theme “Run to Serve the Nation,” participants from Palatine and Chicago suburbs came together for community runs of 3 kilometer, turning the event into a powerful statement of collectiveness. More than a fitness activity, the event celebrated the ideals of Seva Bhav (spirit of service) and echoed Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s vision of Viksit Bharat @ 2047. It also embodied India’s Swadeshi ethos, highlighting the collective call for self-reliance, inclusivity, and environmental responsibility 

The turnout was remarkable, with 100 runners, including volunteers and representatives of 15 community organisations joining hands to make the event a grand success.

Pledge for a Viksit Bharat and Aatmanirbhar Bharat 

A key moment of the event was the collective recitation of the Viksit Bharat and Aatmanirbhar Bharat Pledge, where participants committed to contributing towards India’s journey of becoming a developed nation by 2047. This gesture brought Chicago closer to Indians across the globe, aligning with the Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s vision of a Viksit Bharat and reinforcing a shared aspiration for growth, innovation, and global leadership. 

Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam: A Green Commitment 

During the Viksit Bharat Run held on 28 September 2025 at Twin Lake Park, Palatine, IL, a sapling was planted by Consul General as part of the Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam initiative.

In addition to the run, the “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” campaign was embraced by the community in Chicago at the Hindu Temple of Greater Chicago, Lemont, IL on 21 September 2025. More than 100 participants including children attended the event where Consul General planted a sapling, honouring loved ones and underscoring the link between personal responsibility and environmental sustainability. This act served as a living reminder of India’s commitment to building a greener planet. 

Diaspora Engagement and Global Partnerships 

The Viksit Bharat Run became a platform for diaspora engagement and youth mobilisation, with Indian Missions partnering community groups, cultural bodies, and local organisations worldwide. It reinforced the spirit of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam – “the world is one family.” 

From London and Paris to New York, Moscow, and Sydney, Indian communities ran together, taking pride in their heritage and reaffirming their role in India’s journey towards a Viksit Bharat. 

In Twin Lake Park, Palatine, IL, Mr. Rakesh Malhotra, Founder of Global Indian Diaspora Foundation, Ms. Anu Malhotra, President of Federation of Indian Association, Ms. Dipti Desai, Sewa International, Mr. Nirav Patel, Asian American Store Owner Association, Ms. Nameetra Vedak, Maharshtra Mandal of Chicago, Mr. Bhailal Patel, Desi Talk, Ms. Vinita Gulabani, Indian American Cultural Association & Sindi Association of Greater Chicago, Mr. Amar Upadhyay from OFBJP, Mr. Shailesh Rajput, VHPA, Ms. Hina Trivedi, Chicago Indo US Lions Club, Mr. Harjinder Khaira from  Punjabi Association of Chicago, Mr. Ravinder Rawat from Uttarakhand Association and other local organisations graced the event, underscoring the importance of connecting India’s development story with the world. 

A Landmark Global Celebration

 The Viksit Bharat Run 2025 emerged as one of India’s largest global outreach initiatives. It carried a strong message of unity, resilience, and shared responsibility, while also showcasing India’s cultural and developmental strides. The run sowed seeds of hope and service for a stronger, more inclusive India. 

Together, let us continue the journey towards a Viksit Bharat - a developed, self-reliant India rooted in service and global leadership.