AMU Vice Chancellor Flags off Patriotic MINI MARATHON to Kickstart 76th Republic Day Celebrations with Unity and Spirit  

Aligarh : In the early hours of a cold and foggy morning, the Aligarh Muslim University (AMU) community gathered at the Athletics Ground for the “Republic Day Patriotic Run 2025,” an energetic and inspiring MINI MARATHON organised by the University Games Committee. The event, celebrating the spirit of unity, freedom, and patriotism, marked the commencement of AMU’s 76th Republic Day celebrations, which will culminate on January 26 with a grand ceremony at Strachey Hall.

The event was inaugurated by the Vice-Chancellor of AMU, Professor Naima Khatoon, who flagged off the marathon in the presence of AMU Registrar Mr. Mohammad Imran and other university officials. The Vice-Chancellor’s words of encouragement resonated with the participants, emphasising the values of resilience, unity, and fitness.

The participation of AMU Registrar, Mr. Mohammad Imran (IPS), and Prof. Poonam Chouhan as runners in the Mini Marathon served as a morale booster for AMU students, who braved the chilly weather to display their patriotic spirit. The boys took on a challenging 6-kilometre route, passing iconic landmarks such as the Duck Pond, Centenary Gate, Shamshad Market, Tasveer Mahal, AK Tibbiya Hospital, Lal Diggi Circle, and the Education Department, before concluding at the Athletics Ground. Meanwhile, the girls competed in a 4-kilometre run, navigating through the Duck Pond, Vice-Chancellor Lodge, Bab-e-Syed Gate, University Circle, and the Education Department, finishing at the same venue.

In the boys’ category, Qamar Abideen secured first place, followed by Haider Abbas in second and Krishna Singh in third. Among the girls, Purnima Sharma clinched the top spot, with Vanshika Raj and Sarika Sharma earning second and third places, respectively. The winners were applauded for their outstanding performances and will be awarded prizes during the Republic Day celebrations on January 26.

Speaking at the event, Prof. Naima Khatoon praised the participants’ vibrant energy and highlighted the importance of initiatives like the Mini Marathon in highlighting community spirit and patriotism among the youth. She stated, “This mini-marathon is not merely a run; it is a testament to the resilience and unity that define our nation. Let us carry this spirit forward as we celebrate the 76th Republic Day.” She also assured that all participants would receive certificates of participation as a token of appreciation.

Prof. S. Amjad Ali Rizvi, Secretary of the Games Committee, announced the winners and extended a warm welcome to the guests. The event was conducted under the coordination of Mr. Mazharul Qamar, with significant contributions from Prof. M. Waseem Ali, Prof. Zaki Anwar Siddiqui, Prof. Shakeel Ahmad, Prof. Mohammad Shamim, and Prof. G.S. Hashmi. Deputy Director of the Games Committee Mr. Anees Ur Rehman Khan, Assistant Director Mr. Arshad Mahmood, Dr. Jameel Ahmad, Ms. Bushra Ghyas along with athletic coaches and exercise teachers from AMU schools, ensured the event’s success.

This mini-marathon paved the way for AMU’s grand Republic Day celebrations scheduled for January 26