The usually traffic-clogged Shankarrao Ghule Road in Pune's NIBM Road area underwent a remarkable transformation this Sunday morning. From 6:30 AM to 10:00 AM on December 7, the familiar sounds of honking were replaced by music, laughter, and the energetic beats of group workouts, thanks to the Happy Streets initiative.
A Morning of Music, Movement, and Community Spirit
Organized by The Times of India and sponsored by Triaa, the event successfully reclaimed the road for people, creating a lively open space dedicated to fitness, games, and social interaction. For those few hours, the stretch was liberated from vehicles, allowing residents to rediscover their neighborhood in a whole new way.
Many participants, like Rohan Kumar Singh, a local resident, stumbled upon the festivities during their regular routines. "I was on my morning jog when the music and crowd caught my attention," Singh shared. "What I planned as a brief stop turned into a full Zumba session and a wonderful chance to catch up with neighbors I hadn't seen in a while."
Zumba, Yoga, and Tug-of-War: Activities for All Ages
The main stage remained the epicenter of energy throughout the event. Zumba and Bollywood fitness sessions drew large, enthusiastic crowds who quickly moved from spectators to active participants. The infectious atmosphere made it impossible to just stand and watch.
Priyanka Shah, who attended with her family, perfectly captured the event's inclusive spirit. "We came just to see what was happening," she said. "But the music pulled us all in. My kids ran to play games, my husband found a yoga group, and I even ended up in a friendly tug-of-war match. It was spontaneous fun for everyone."
A short distance away, the sports zone buzzed with friendly competition. From football and badminton to table tennis and darts, the area was packed with residents of all skill levels. Ashok Patil, from a nearby housing society, appreciated the non-competitive vibe. "The beauty was in the casual participation. People played for five minutes or thirty, with no pressure. It felt genuinely relaxed and joyful," he noted.
Creating Lasting Memories and Neighborhood Bonds
For children, the dedicated kids' zone was a major attraction. Activities like mini-bowling, giant Jenga, and traditional games kept them engaged and active. Shalini Makhija, a local parent, highlighted the event's impact. "On typical Sundays, it's a struggle to get the kids away from screens," she explained. "But here, they were fully immersed and didn't want to leave. This road, which is usually so hectic, felt like our personal community park."
The overwhelming success of the event resonated with the sponsors as well. Ankit Goel, Managing Director of Triaa, expressed his appreciation to TOI, stating, "Witnessing the sheer joy and vibrant energy that filled the streets was truly heartwarming. The enthusiastic participation reminded us of the beautiful, connected community we are part of. The residents' presence made this event a resounding success and a genuine moment of connection."
The Happy Streets event on NIBM Road stands as a powerful example of how temporary urban spaces can foster health, happiness, and stronger neighborhood ties, turning an ordinary Sunday into an extraordinary community celebration.
