“Record-Break Crowd”: Historic River Cyclothon Witnessed by 79,000 Environment Enthusiasts

Massive response from Pimpri-Chinchwad citizens to the initiative conceptualised by MLA Mahesh Landge

Pimpri-Chinchwad | Representative

The River Cyclothon 2025, organised on Sunday to spread global awareness about cleaning the Indrayani River, received an unprecedented response this year. The special programme “Shiv-Shambu Yashogatha”, which brought together the Warkari tradition and environmental conservation, became the highlight of the event. The cyclothon showcased an inspiring blend of historical valour from the Shiv-era, cultural heritage, and the message of river conservation.

The cyclothon began at 6 AM on Sunday, 23 November, from the premises of the Statue of Hindubhushan—Dharmaveer Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, the tallest statue of Sambhaji Maharaj in the world. The initiative, held annually on the concept of MLA Mahesh Landge, created history this year as it marked its 9th edition. The procession of Ranamard Shiledars, traditional warrior performances, mardani arts, the beats of dhol-tasha, and torch-lit dance presentations gave the participants a vivid glimpse of the valour of the Shiv-era. The chants of Shiv-Shambu echoed powerfully across the area.

Senior officials and dignitaries—including Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation’s Additional Commissioner Shravan Hardikar, former Mayor Rahul Jadhav, Nitin Kalje, BJP city president Shatrughna Kate, and directors of Dhanshree Hospital—were present, along with representatives from various organisations and institutions.
The event was jointly organised by the Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation, Avirat Shramdaan Sanstha, Cycle Mitra, WTE Foundation, and Maheshdada Sports Foundation.

Thousands of Shiv devotees, cyclists, and citizens gathered to pay tribute to the world’s tallest Statue of Hindubhushan Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj. The programme “Shiv-Shambu Yashogatha” emerged as the main attraction of the event.

AI Counting System Shows Record Participation

While 38,000 cyclists had officially registered online, the advanced AI counting system used by the WTE Foundation recorded significantly higher on-ground participation.
Using computer vision and deep learning technology, the system reported:

Over 51,300 bicycles

Nearly 78,900 attendees

This indicates that a very large number of cyclists joined the event without prior registration, which is noteworthy. Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation’s Additional Commissioner Shravan Hardikar played a key role in leading the organisational efforts. Police departments, government bodies, and educational institutions also contributed significantly, said chief coordinator Dr. Nilesh Londhe, expressing gratitude.

Three Tracks, Thousands Participating

The cyclothon offered three routes—5 km, 15 km, and 25 km—and saw massive participation across all categories.
Dr. Nilesh Londhe of Avirat Shramdaan stated:

“Shiv-Shambu Yashogatha is not merely a series of performances, but an inspiration to preserve our history and culture. This same inspiration will connect more people to the cause of environmental conservation.”

Reactions

Mahesh Landge, MLA, BJP, Pimpri-Chinchwad, Pune

“The Indrayani River is the lifeline of our culture. It is essential today for everyone to come together, forgetting all differences, for its cleanliness. The approval given by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis for the Indrayani River improvement project is a great success of this initiative.

The enthusiastic participation of more than 79,000 citizens will strengthen the movement for river conservation. The overwhelming support from Pimpri-Chinchwad residents, society federations, and various NGOs has made this a world-record cyclothon.

This year’s cyclothon was dedicated to the Statue of Hindubhushan. Thousands of cyclists offered their respects to the world’s tallest memorial of Dharmaveer Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj.

We faced many struggles and allegations during the construction of this memorial. Henceforth, no allegations will be tolerated. I appeal to everyone to unite for the city and for the legacy of Shiv-Shambu.”

Shravan Hardikar, Additional Commissioner, Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation

“Three rivers—Pawana, Indrayani, and Mula—flow through Pimpri-Chinchwad. Their conservation, rejuvenation, and beautification are the responsibility of every citizen.

The cyclothon is a collective initiative encouraging more citizens to adopt cycling and embrace non-motorised transport as a part of their lifestyle. Increased use of public transport will help reduce pollution and create a healthier environment for the city.

The Municipal Corporation fully supports such initiatives. Every individual must take the responsibility to keep the river and the city pollution-free. The River Cyclothon is organised to spread this message, and Pimpri-Chinchwad citizens have given it an overwhelming response.”