7th April 2023, Mumbai: The Guinness Book of World Records is known for recognizing some of the most incredible human achievements across the globe. In recent years, one such achievement has been the JITO Ahimsa Run, sponsored by the Torrent Group, which has earned a place in the prestigious record book.
JITO (Jain International Trade Organization) is a non-profit organization that promotes the principles of Jainism, which emphasizes non-violence and respect for all living beings. The JITO Ahimsa Run is an annual event that seeks to spread awareness about the importance of non-violence and harmony in society.
The run takes place in various cities across India, and participants run a distance of 21 kilometers. However, what makes this run unique is that participants must do so barefoot, as a symbol of their commitment to non-violence and the sanctity of all life.
The 2019 JITO Ahimsa Run, sponsored by the Torrent Group, was an incredible success. The event saw over 7,500 participants take part, making it the largest barefoot run in the world. The runners included people of all ages, from children to senior citizens, and came from all walks of life, including business leaders, professionals, and students.
The run began at 6:00 am, with participants gathering at the starting line in Ahmedabad, Gujarat. The atmosphere was electric, with runners stretching and warming up, while volunteers handed out water and energy drinks. As the sun began to rise, the runners set off on their 21-kilometer journey.
The route took the runners through some of Ahmedabad’s most iconic landmarks, including the Sabarmati Ashram, the home of Mahatma Gandhi, who championed the principles of non-violence and peaceful protest. Along the way, volunteers and supporters cheered on the runners, providing encouragement and motivation.
Despite the grueling distance and barefoot conditions, the runners persevered, with many completing the run in under three hours. The sense of accomplishment and camaraderie was palpable as runners crossed the finish line, with hugs, high-fives, and smiles all around.
The success of the 2019 JITO Ahimsa Run was not just in the numbers, however. The event helped raise awareness about the importance of non-violence and harmony in society and highlighted the role that individuals can play in promoting these principles.
In recognition of this achievement, the Guinness Book of World Records added the JITO Ahimsa Run to its record book in the category of “largest barefoot run.” This achievement is a testament to the dedication and commitment of the organizers, sponsors, volunteers, and participants, who came together to make this event a success.
In conclusion, the JITO Ahimsa Run sponsored by the Torrent Group is a shining example of how a community can come together to promote the principles of non-violence and harmony in society. Its recognition in the Guinness Book of World Records is well-deserved, and we can only hope that this event will continue to inspire others to make a positive difference in their communities.