Ramabai Joins Pink Run, Inspires Thousands
The 21 km Half Marathon witnessed strong international participation: Reports
HYDERABAD: Ramabai Ranveer, a 47‑year‑old mother from Ambajogai in Maharashtra who once ran 5 km barefoot to raise money for her children’s education, participated in the Pink Run 3.0 here on Sunday. She was handed over ₹1 lakh, and the Sudha Reddy Foundation also promised support to open a general store for her livelihood.
The shores of Hussainsagar witnessed a massive turnout early Sunday morning as 35,000 participants gathered at the HMDA Grounds for the third edition of the Pink Power Run. Jointly organised by Megha Engineering & Infrastructures Ltd. (MEIL) and the Sudha Reddy Foundation, the community run aimed to promote preventive healthcare, early detection of breast cancer and women’s empowerment.
The flagship fitness initiative featured four race categories: a 21 km Half Marathon, along with 10 km, 5 km and 3 km runs. The event was flagged off in the presence of minister Danasari ‘Seethakka’ Anasuya, Director General of Police C.V. Anand, MEIL managing director P.V. Krishna Reddy, Sudha Reddy, founder of the Sudha Reddy Foundation; Laura Williams, Consul General, US Consulate General in Hyderabad; and V.V. Lakshminarayana, vice‑president, Olectra Greentech (Evey Trans).
Adding star power to the occasion were Opal Suchata, former Miss World Thailand; Indian professional boxer Vijender Singh; actor Siddu Jonnalagadda; and music composer S. Thaman, who energised the crowd with a live performance.
The 21 km Half Marathon witnessed strong international participation, with elite runners from more than a dozen countries, including the USA, UK, UAE, Ethiopia, Uganda, Sri Lanka, Iceland, Tanzania, Botswana, Kenya and Canada.
Highlighting the event’s inclusive spirit, participants ranged from five‑year‑old children to seniors over 80, alongside neurodivergent individuals and persons with disabilities.
A key highlight was the participation of Ramabai Ranveer, whose earlier barefoot run for her children’s education had drawn national attention. Her presence served as an inspiring testament to grassroots awareness and women’s determination.
In the 21K Half Marathon category, Suneel Kumar won the men’s title, while Sonam clinched the women’s crown. In the 10K Run, Harish Shareen secured first place in the men’s category, while Vandana Patel won the women’s division. In the 5K Run, Luv Choudhary took top honours in the men’s category, while Anjali won the women’s race.
The organisers distributed cash prizes worth ₹75 lakh, along with medals and trophies, to the top finishers across all categories. US Consul General Laura Williams actively participated in the 10K run, while dignitaries including Sudha Reddy, P.V. Krishna Reddy and Opal Suchata joined the 5K and 10K runs.
Minister Seethakka spoke about raising awareness regarding health issues. “Hyderabad has united for this walk today. Sudha Reddy has organised this walk, and a lot of youth have participated. It will create awareness and health consciousness across society,” she said.
MEIL MD Krishna Reddy emphasised the importance of everyday fitness in preventing lifestyle diseases. “Maintaining good health requires us to exercise regularly. Physical activity not only ensures individual health but is true wealth itself,” he said.
Sudha Reddy said, “This is the third year for us, and as we have grown up in Hyderabad, we want to give the best to Hyderabad. Looking at the crowd, we are so happy to see it, and the vibe is great. Fitness and health are a top priority.”
Former Miss World Opal Suchata Chuangsri of Thailand said, “I came for the second year; it’s for a good cause. I’m honoured to be flagging off the 10K and the 5K. It’s really nice because I work on breast cancer, so it’s something very special for me.”