Mumbai witnessed an inspiring display of solidarity as hundreds of runners, volunteers, and supporters came together for the 1^st edition of the ‘Jiyo Samman Se’ Run, India’s first-ever timed epilepsy awareness run, organized by Samman Association. Held at Malad West in Mumbai, the event aimed to raise epilepsy awareness, dispel myths, stamp out stigma and promote inclusivity. 

“The Jiyo Samman Se Run is a step towards changing the narrative about Epilepsy. Community support and fostering inclusivity can help to make a difference in raising awareness and removal of stigma, “said Dr. Sangeeta Ravat, Dean, Seth G S Medical College and KEM Hospital, president of Indian Academy of Neurology and President of Samman Association. 

“The event has overwhelming support from healthcare professionals, fitness influencers, and epilepsy advocates, reaffirming the need for continued conversations about understanding and acceptance,” said Dr Jayanti Mani (Neurologist) and the Secretary of Samman Association.

Highlights of the Event:

• Almost 500 participants ran with purpose and celebrated resilience

• Event flagged-off by:

Aditya Mehta, Epilepsy Warrior, ACSM certified running & nutrition coach and international triathelete – 10km

Shekhar Pathipaka, CEO of Schoolpack & sponsor of various causes – 5km

Dr. Natasha Tipnis, Neurologist, Jaslok Hospital – 3km

48 Awards presented across categories for the 5km and 10km timed runs

Experiences for participants included:

Dance warm up conducted by Tishya Kaul and Abhinav Gusain

Master of Ceremonies Gagan Singh Chauhan kept the audience engaged and entertained

Insights on Epilepsy by:

Dr. Sangeeta Ravat, Dean, Seth G.S. Medical College & KEM Hospital, President of Indian Academy of Neurology and President of Samman Association

Dr Jayanti Mani, Epileptologist & Neurologist, Kokilaben Ambani Hospital and Secretary of Samman Association

Wall of Courage where participants could leave messages

Selfie point

The event was supported by PCPL as title sponsor, co-powered by Decathlon & Western Consolidated, with Chronos for Timing, Tropicool Café as the Nutrition partner, Enerzal as the Sports Drink Partner, OAP as Outdoor Media Partner, AF Care for Physiotherapy, Criticare Hospital as Medical Partner, and Childraise as Social Partner.

About Samman Association

Samman Association, formerly known as the Indian Epilepsy Association, Bombay Chapter, has been supporting individuals with epilepsy and their caregivers since 1971. With over 400 members and 50+ years of service, the organization has conducted rural epilepsy clinics, awareness programs, and educational initiatives across Maharashtra. The mission of Samman Association is to eliminate stigma, and create a society where epilepsy is understood and accepted.

Our heartiest thanks to all who supported us: Mr Pranav Ashar from PCPL, Mrs. Kavita Shanbhag ma’am from ChildRaise Trust, Mr. Prabhakar from Intas, Mr. Basu from Dr. Reddys, Mr. Ignatius Misquitta, Mr. Bikas Verma and the OAP Team, Decathlon Malad Team, Mr. Anurag Rao from PPL, Mr. Randall and team from Tropicool Cafe, Rotary’s Dhwani, All About Dance’s Tishya and Abhinav, AF Care’s Dr. Prem and team, Mr. Mithun from Athlos, Our Master of Ceremonies Mr. Gagan, and Kapil, Ankita and Parvindar from KA Sports Team.

We hope to see you next time – Jiyo Samman Se!