Harsh Munde | Photojournalist
Mega Event at Gateway of
India, Mumbai on 11.02.2026
The Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) successfully organised a grand Mega Event of the Vande Mataram Coastal Cyclothon–2026 (VMCC–2026) on 11 February 2026 at the iconic Gateway of India, Mumbai, as part of its national coastal outreach initiative “Vande Mataram – Surakshit Tat, Samriddh Bharat”. The Western Coast team of VMCC–2026 reached Mumbai as an important milestone in its 6,553 km coastal awareness journey.
The evening programme was graced by Shri Rahul Narwekar, Hon’ble Speaker, Maharashtra Legislative Assembly, Shri Praveer Ranjan, IPS, Director General, CISF, Shri Rajesh Aggarwal, IAS, Chief Secretary, Government of Maharashtra, and Shri Deven Bharti, IPS, Commissioner of Police, Mumbai. The dignitaries felicitated the cyclists, presented medals and interacted with participants, emphasising the importance of collective responsibility in coastal security, the Blue Economy and anti-drug trafficking awareness.
Bollywood celebrities Shri Anil Kapoor and Shri Boney Kapoor, along with former India cricketer Shri Dilip Vengsarkar, actor Shri Ahaan Shetty and Shri Ayush Mhatre, U-19 Indian Cricket Captain and recent world champion, extended their support to the Cyclothon, reinforcing the message of national security and public participation. Over 1,000 members of the public attended the event in person, while more than 10,000 people connected virtually, reflecting strong community engagement.
As part of outreach activities, the Cyclothon team held an interaction with fishermen communities at Bhaucha Dhakka, highlighting the vital role of coastal residents as “Tat Praharis” (Coastal Sentinels). The team also engaged with NCC cadets and students, sharing their experiences and motivating youth to actively contribute to coastal vigilance and national security.
The cultural segment of the Mega Event featured a vibrant showcase of patriotic and traditional performances, including “Vande Mataram” group songs by CISF wards, a solo sitar recital by Shri Chirag Katti, and a colourful bouquet of folk dances such as Kathak (by Ms. Shila Mehta), Rajasthani, Gujarati and Koli dance, along with a special Ganesh Utsav performance curated by the Maharashtra Cultural Department. A powerful jugalbandi led by Pandita Anuradha Pal on tabla, supported by the CISF orchestra and vocalist Shri Aakash, further energised the gathering.
The formal proceedings included a welcome address by Smt. Mamta Rahul, IPS, DIG WZ-1, and an address by Shri Padmakar S. Ranpise,IPS, ADG (South), who underlined the importance of community participation in national security. The Chief Guest, Shri Rahul Narwekar, commended CISF’s contribution to the national security apparatus and appreciated its people-centric initiatives like the Coastal Cyclothon. A felicitation ceremony for dignitaries was followed by a group photograph with the cyclists
The Mega Event concluded with a ceremonial flag-off by the dignitaries for the next leg of the Cyclothon towards Kochi, symbolising the continued resolve to strengthen coastal security through people’s participation. Shri Abhishek Goyal, IPS, IG WS, delivered the vote of thanks, acknowledging the enthusiastic support of all stakeholders, participants and the citizens of Mumbai.