Hyderabad witnessed an extraordinary display of faith and community spirit on Holy Saturday, April 19, 2025, as nearly 100,000 Christians participated in the annual "Run for Jesus" rally. This vibrant event, which celebrates the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus Christ, featured 34 simultaneous processions across the twin cities and beyond, marking a significant moment in the Christian calendar.
The largest gathering took place at St Mary’s Basilica in Secunderabad, where Cardinal Poola Anthony officially flagged off the march to St George’s Grammar School in Abids. The rally commenced at 6 a.m. to avoid traffic disruptions and allowed participants to engage in a collective expression of faith through singing hymns and waving flags.
Participants made their way on foot, motorcycles, and cars, creating a festive atmosphere throughout the city. Lorna Mithra, a visitor from Tampa, Florida, expressed her awe at the turnout, stating, "I’ve never seen such a massive congregation of believers. It was a truly marvellous sight." Her sentiments were echoed by local resident Priya Parker, who was attending her sixth rally. "The constant praising of God makes the entire route come alive," she remarked, highlighting the joyous atmosphere that enveloped the event.
The event has grown significantly since its inception in 2011, when it was launched by Aradana TV as a modest gathering of 30 locations. Now, it has evolved into a community-owned initiative embraced by various churches across denominations, expanding to over 600 locations this year, not just in Hyderabad but also in Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Maharashtra, and even internationally.
Cardinal Poola Anthony, Bishop K. Ruben Mark, and Bro. Paul Devapriyam Pulla, chairman of Aradana TV, were among the prominent figures participating in the rally. The day concluded at St George’s Grammar School with musical performances and messages from church leaders, reinforcing the event's spiritual significance.
Paul Devapriyam Pulla, the founder, emphasized the careful coordination with city authorities that has allowed the rally to flourish each year. "Our aim is a peaceful, prayer-filled celebration — and that’s exactly what we delivered today," he said, reflecting on the successful organization that has become a hallmark of the event.
As the sun rose over Hyderabad, the streets filled with participants who came together to celebrate their faith. The processions not only highlighted the religious significance of the occasion but also fostered a sense of community among believers from diverse backgrounds.
The "Run for Jesus" rally serves as a reminder of the power of collective faith and the importance of community in the Christian tradition. With each passing year, the event continues to draw larger crowds, reinforcing its status as a significant occasion for Christians across the region.
As participants reflected on the meaning of Easter, the atmosphere was charged with hope and unity, demonstrating that faith can bring people together, transcending geographical and cultural boundaries. The rally not only celebrated the resurrection of Jesus but also the resilience and vibrancy of the Christian community in India.
Looking ahead, organizers are optimistic about the future of the "Run for Jesus" rally. With plans for further expansion and involvement from more churches, the event aims to reach even greater heights in the coming years. As Paul Devapriyam Pulla noted, the goal is to ensure that the spirit of the event remains alive and relevant, providing a platform for worship and celebration.
In a world often divided by differences, the "Run for Jesus" rally stands as a testament to the unifying power of faith. It invites all believers to come together in celebration, reinforcing the message of love, hope, and resurrection that Easter embodies.
As the sun set on April 19, 2025, the echoes of hymns and the vibrant colors of flags continued to resonate throughout Hyderabad, marking another successful chapter in the history of the "Run for Jesus" rally.
