Media Release
Mangaluru, Sept 21: KMC Hospital, Mangaluru, hosted the World Heart Day Walkathon 2025 on Sunday, September 21 at 6:30 am, starting from Dr B R Ambedkar Circle and concluding at Marena Sports Complex.
The Walkathon, organised to raise awareness about cardiovascular diseases and encourage healthier lifestyles, saw over 1,500 participants from young and younger-at-heart people, families, corporates, institutions, and individuals across the city.
The event was flagged off by Mithun H N, IPS, DCP Law & Order, Mangaluru, and Geetha D Kulkarni, ACP (CCRB), Mangaluru City Police, with national-level athlete Master Yashas leading as the torch bearer.
The theme for this year, “Don’t Miss a Beat”, served as a powerful reminder to prioritise cardiovascular well-being through regular check-ups, healthier lifestyle choices, and preventive care.
Participants walked through major city routes before gathering for the valedictory programme, graced by dignitaries including Dr Dilip G Naik, pro vice-chancellor of MAHE Mangaluru campus, and the Cardiology & Cardiac Surgery team of KMC Hospital, Mangaluru.
Addressing the gathering, Saghir Siddiqui, regional chief operating officer, KMC Hospital, Dr B R. Ambedkar Circle, Mangaluru, said, “At KMC Hospital, we believe in blending medical excellence with community engagement. Today’s walk is not just about exercise – it’s about community, awareness, and collective responsibility for better heart health.”
Dr Dilip G Naik, pro vice-chancellor of MAHE Mangaluru campus, said, “At KMC, our mission extends beyond patient care. Events like this Walkathon allow us to engage directly with the community and encourage families to adopt healthier habits together. For over two decades, we have championed the ‘Walk for Your Heart’ initiative, and it is inspiring to see it grow stronger each year.”
Dr Narasimha Pai, head of Cardiology, KMC Hospital, Mangaluru, highlighted the urgency behind the initiative. “We are seeing a concerning rise in heart disease, even among the young. Lifestyle factors like stress, lack of exercise, and unhealthy diets are major contributors. A walk may seem simple, but it symbolises preventive action – something each of us must adopt.”
The event saw enthusiastic participation, with numbers surpassing last year’s thousand-plus walkers. Participants also competed in creative categories including Best Group Participation, Best Slogan, Best Placard, and Most Enthusiastic Participant. Groups like Fiza by Nexus, Athena Nursing College, Sridevi Nursing College, MRPL, NMPA, and many others took part.
With a blend of medical expertise, community spirit, and joyful competition, KMC Hospital’s World Heart Day Walkathon 2025 reinforced its commitment to healthier living and a heart-healthy Mangaluru.