The streets of Hyderabad came alive this Sunday morning as over 1,500 runners gathered at Gachibowli Stadium for the ShreeTMT Hyderabad 10K Run – Mind Over Miles, an inspiring initiative dedicated to promoting mental health awareness through the power of running.
Organized by AD Life Trust in collaboration with Orange Hub Events, the run wasn’t just a race; it was a movement. Under the theme “Prevention is Better than Cure,” the event aimed to highlight the critical connection between physical fitness and mental well-being, particularly at a time when Hyderabad’s Mental Health Quotient (MHQ) ranks among the lowest in India at 58.3, as reported by Sapien Labs (2024).
“This run isn’t about winning; it’s about healing together,” said Dr. Ch. Preeti Reddy, Vice Chairman of Malla Reddy Vishwavidyapeeth, the Chief Guest of the event. “Our youth must understand that taking care of their mind is as vital as taking care of their body. Disconnect from screens, connect with people; that’s where true happiness lies.”
The event also featured a compelling talk by Dr. Rajeevi, MD in Psychiatry and Associate Professor at the Institute of Mental Health, who emphasized how regular exercise, social interaction, and balanced routines can significantly improve mental resilience.
Every participant received a T-shirt, medal, and certificate, but the real reward was the shared sense of solidarity.
“Mental health is the invisible finish line we must all strive to reach. Through this run, we want to show that every step taken for yourself is a step taken for society,” said Ajay Reddy, Director of Orange Hub Events (a brand promoted by Addlife project private limited), expressing his pride in seeing Hyderabad embrace the cause wholeheartedly.
The top finishers in 16 categories were honored with cash prizes, while all sponsors and partners were felicitated for their contributions to the cause. The morning’s atmosphere blended high energy with heartfelt purpose. Music, cheers, and the rhythmic pulse of runners echoed through the stadium.
“As someone who has battled anxiety, running has been my therapy. Today, running alongside hundreds of others who believe in this message made me feel less alone,” shared Suhasini Rao, a participant and software professional from Madhapur, who completed the 10K run with a smile and tears of triumph.
The event was powered by ShreeTMT as the title sponsor, with strong support from Union Bank of India, LIC, Agreekart, V Sparkle, and others. Partners like Skyveda (Hydration), Lemonridge Hotels and Monday Hotels (Hospitality), Malla Reddy Vishwavidyapeeth and Mahindra University (Education), BBR Hospitals and 108 (Health), Timing Technologies (Timing Partner), iFinish (Registration Partner) and Giggle Mug Events (Support Partner) ensured the event ran seamlessly.
The “Mind Over Miles” initiative aligns with AD Life Trust’s five-year strategic focus on mental health awareness across India, highlighting the preventive role of lifestyle, fitness, and community-based interventions. With Hyderabad’s fast-paced urban life taking a toll on emotional well-being, such movements offer hope and a reminder that wellness begins with one mindful step.
As the morning sun rose higher over Gachibowli Stadium, one thing became clear: this was not the end of a run, but the beginning of a movement. The city that runs for tech and progress now runs for mental health, hope, and healing.
