It was early morning on a Wednesday, but the North Campus of Delhi University was buzzing with activity. This contagious energy emanated from over 5,000 youths who came together to take part in the 2.4-km Viksit Bharat Run. Actor RajKummar Rao and badminton ace Saina Nehwal cheered them on as they came forward to use the sports medium to create awareness about exercising the right to vote.
“Hum Youth jab koshish karenge tabhi toh Bharat viksit hoga,” said Saatvik Misra, a first-year student of Sri Aurobindo College (evening), who represented the college’s rugby team. Running activity. “Sports provides a platform for young people to showcase their talent and contribute in taking the country forward,” Mishra added.
Students active in the National Cadet Corps (NCC) and National Service Scheme (NSS) units also came together to take part in the run, which was hosted by Nehwal and Duke Vice-Chancellor Yogesh Singh host. “This campaign is about getting all students to stand up, know their rights and take a step towards becoming vicar of the country by voting,” said Singh.
The badminton ace initially defended the female athletes as she addressed the young audience, later adding: “This run is for us, hum sabke future ke liye hai…Hum sab milke apni country ko aage leke jayein isliye vote karna zaroori hai. Vote and become number one in your field like me!” Her words inspired many, including Arti Singh, a first-year student at Hansraj College.She said: “When I signed up [for the run] Four days ago, I was campaigning just as a DU student. But today, I as a youth of the country run with these two youth icons… When Raj Kummar said in street movie wala style: “Doston, pleej!” I thought, at least, now my friends will go and vote, Rather than abandoning their duties for a wrong plan! “