HAPPY STREETS: A FRESH START TO HAPPINESS

Nagpur: The Orange City woke up to music, movement and merriment on Sunday as Happy Streets transformed the stretch from Laxmi Bhavan Square to Law College Square into a buzzing celebration zone. Organised by The Times of India and Maharashtra Times, the initiative turned the stretch into a vibrant playground for fitness enthusiasts and families alike. The event was supported by Raisoni Group, HCG Global Health Care, The Skylink Academy, SBL Energy Limited, Delhi Public School and Disha Hair & Beauty.Chief guest Ravinder Singal and other dignitaries released balloons at the inaugural ceremony. As upbeat tracks filled the air, participants poured in — from children barely tall enough to hold a hula hoop to octogenarians eager to match the Zumba steps.
A bouquet of engaging activities blended wellness with entertainment. Hopscotch grids and skipping ropes drew children in large numbers, while ring toss challenges and a life-sized Snakes and Ladders arena kept competitive spirits high. The live band from Delhi Public School, Kamptee Road, added a rhythmic touch.A yoga display by tiny tots of Chakrasana Sports Academy and a traditional Shankhnaad group performance brought moments of synchronised discipline and cultural vibrancy to the event. Hairdressers presented a live demonstration, vibing to the upbeat music. Amar Jajoo, the Emcee, along with Dr Nitin Bomanwar, associate director, surgical oncology at HCG, shared an awareness session about early cancer detection and prevention.Children dashed along the streets, balancing lemons on spoons clenched between their teeth. A yoga enthusiast captivated onlookers with impressive calisthenics, balancing himself upside down on metal brackets. Nearby, groups of youngsters locked into intense tug-of-war.Many participants described the event as an opportunity to rediscover the joy of open spaces.Eighty-two-year-old Laxman Parmar, who has attended the event in the past too, said the platform motivates him to remain active. "I enjoyed the Zumba session — feeling the collective energy was truly refreshing," he said.Nine-year-old Neev Shah called Happy Streets a cherished family tradition. "I enjoyed hula hooping and competing with friends. Waking up early on a Sunday feels totally worth it," he said with a grin.First-time visitor Grishma Kamble, 18, said, "It feels safe, vibrant and inclusive.