Bengaluru: It was the break of dawn. The vestiges of the previous night’s slight nip remained in the air, soon to give way for the unwelcome and unrelenting heat.
A lone scooter trudged along the Old Airport Road. The man, with his running gear on, sat in front while his wife sat behind with their son sandwiched between the two, holding placards with encouraging words for his father.
The city was alive and ready for the TCS World 10K at the Sree Kanteerava Stadium. What was once an event for running enthusiasts has slowly evolved to what is now a family outing, as evidenced by this family.
The people of Bengaluru were awake before the sun had come up and on a Sunday, that is saying something. As a sea of people, over 12,000 strong, made their way onto the road in the early hours for the Open 10K, the roads were awash with colours. Some bright, some twinkly and others more sober. Bengaluru had once again woken up to the sound of a thousand footsteps.
While the early run was aimed at the fitness enthusiasts and aspiring running public, the Majja Run showed the creative and caring side of the city. Braving the hammer blows of relentless heat, thousands took to the streets.
With signs varying from organ donations to adoption to general awareness to innovative outfits to showcase talent and thought behind their initiative, the city showed they cared and cared deeply. It was majja, but it was something more.
Days like these are rare. It’s exactly the reason that makes it all the more special.
A day of togetherness, a day for a purpose, a day for a new beginning.
