Mumbai: Valia College successfully organised its 2nd Inter-Collegiate Clean Air Awareness Mini Marathon on Sunday morning, January 11, bringing together students, faculty members, and citizens in a collective initiative promoting fitness, sustainability, and environmental responsibility.
The marathon featured 3 km and 5 km run categories for men and women and witnessed enthusiastic participation from over 600 students representing Valia College and various other institutions across the city. The event aimed to encourage healthy lifestyles while spreading awareness about the urgent need for clean air and sustainable living.
The programme was organised by the Sports Committee of Valia College under the guidance of Dr. Bageshree P. B. Bandekar, I/C Principal, in association with LEAP India – Mission Clean Air and Mission Green Mumbai.
The marathon was ceremonially flagged off by Shri Dinesh Lad, renowned cricket coach and mentor to Indian cricketer Rohit Sharma. His presence served as a major source of inspiration for the young participants, reinforcing the importance of discipline, perseverance, and dedication both in sports and in life.
A distinctive highlight of the event was its strong emphasis on sustainability. The medals awarded to participants were crafted from recycled multi-layered plastic (MLP), underscoring the college’s commitment to environmental responsibility, waste reduction, and conscious consumption.
The successful organisation of the marathon reflected Valia College’s ongoing efforts to integrate environmental awareness with community engagement and youth participation, making the event not just a sporting activity but a meaningful movement towards a cleaner and healthier future.
As part of the environmental commitment, one native tree will be planted in the name of each registered participant by LEAP India – Mission Clean Air, symbolising a lasting contribution towards a greener, healthier, and cleaner future.
The event received strong support from LEAP India – Mission Clean Air, under the leadership of its Founder Mr. Sunu Mathew, whose sponsorship and faith in Valia College strengthened both the purpose and reach of the initiative. The marathon also witnessed the presence of Mr. Ashmit Patel, actor and international DJ, and Ms. Jaya Bhattacharya, actor and animal activist, who extended their support to the clean air and sustainability cause.
The morning began with an energising warm-up session conducted by Ms. Piyu Chouhan, setting a positive and motivating tone for the participants. The marathon was further shaped with guidance from Mr. Subhajit of Mission Green Mumbai, whose outreach, coordination, and digital engagement were instrumental in elevating the initiative into a meaningful social movement.
Faculty members and students worked relentlessly over the past days to ensure seamless execution, with the Sports Committee playing a pivotal role in planning and on-ground coordination. The College Management’s continued encouragement and support enabled the successful execution of the marathon at this scale.
Through this initiative, Valia College reaffirmed its commitment to holistic education, extending beyond classrooms to nurture social responsibility, environmental awareness, and community engagement.
The Clean Air Awareness Mini Marathon concluded on a high note, leaving participants with medals that carried a message, memories that inspired change, and a renewed sense of responsibility towards cleaner air and a sustainable future.
Shubham Pedamkar