Dawoodi Bohra runners participated in the HRX Juhu Half Marathon in Mumbai

MUMBAI: Young and old Dawoodi Bohra runners came together with determination and passion, joining over 7,000 participants from across Mumbai for the HRX Juhu Half Marathon recently.
With every stride, they pushed their limits, chasing not just the finish line but a greater purpose, promoting mental well-being. The event saw students carry powerful messages highlighting the harmful effects of excessive mobile phone usage among children and the importance of protecting their mental health.
The run, flagged off at 6 AM, featured three categories— Half Marathon (21 km), the Pro Run (10 km), and the Dream Run (4 km). Runners started from Jamnabai Narsee School ground, covering Juhu Beach and returning to the starting point. The marathon, endorsed by actor Hrithik Roshan, is organised by the Get Fit Thru Sports Foundation and the Rotary Club of Bombay Airport.
A Community Pavilion was set up to promote mental well-being, supported by Burhani Sports, the Dawoodi Bohra community’s platform dedicated to fostering sports, physical fitness, and athlete development across all age groups and genders.
Taikhoom Mohiyuddin, nephew of His Holiness Syedna Mufaddal Saifuddin and director of Burhani Sports, who was present at the marathon, emphasised the community’s commitment to holistic well-being: “As a community, we firmly believe that well-being is not just a personal endeavour but a collective responsibility. Our faith teaches us that it is important to take care of the body as it is essential for our spiritual well being, and sports events like these align perfectly with that ethos—promoting fitness, discipline, and a spirit of unity,” he said.
He further added, “Our theme this year is ‘Run for the Mind,’ reflecting our global movement to raise awareness about the negative impact of excessive screen time on children’s physical, mental, and emotional well-being.”
Atul Parekh, organisor of the Juhu Half Marathon, said: “The surplus from this event, received by the Rotary Club of Bombay Airport, goes towards providing free pediatric heart surgeries for children in need. Our event motto, ‘Keep Your Heart Fit, Let Another Heart beat,’ reflects this mission—encouraging fitness while also saving lives.”
The energy and camaraderie among the Bohra runners were palpable as they motivated and encouraged one another along the route.
14-year-old Husain Maimoon from Saify High School, Mumbai, shared his experience: “With each step I took, I felt lighter—not just physically, but mentally. It was as if I was disconnecting from my phone and all the noise that comes with it, and reconnecting with myself and my mind.“
“This marathon wasn’t just about crossing the finish line; it was about finding balance and realising how important it is to take a break from screens and be present in the moment,” he added.
Nooruddin Mandsaurwala, 51, a Chartered Accountant and first-time runner, said:“This marathon was a new challenge for me, and I took it as a step toward continuous growth. Seeing people of all ages come together for a cause, lifting each other up and celebrating wellness, was truly inspiring