NRI PULSE STAFF REPORT
Querétaro, Mexico, Aug. 27, 2025 — The spirit of freedom and friendship took center stage at Parque La Queretana as the Indian Association of Querétaro (IAQ) hosted the India–Mexico Friendship Run, “Azaadi ki Daud,” to mark India’s 79th Independence Day.
The event, held in partnership with Querétaro’s Secretaría de Relaciones Exteriores and Secretaría del Deporte, drew participants for 3.5K, 7K, and 10K runs designed to promote health, unity, and intercultural exchange.
Adding a touch of cultural elegance to the athletic celebration was Sareena Nagpal, founder and director of Naach Dance Academy in Atlanta, USA. Originally from Gurugram, India, Nagpal traveled to Querétaro especially for the occasion. She opened the ceremony with a soulful Guru Vandana invocation, blending grace and devotion while paying tribute to her Indian roots.
Her performance was warmly received by runners and guests alike, many of whom gathered afterward to meet her and capture the moment in photos. “Sareena’s presence reminded us that culture and sport together create bonds that transcend borders,” one attendee remarked.
The celebration also drew strong institutional backing, with dignitaries in attendance including Querétaro Mayor Felipe Fernando Macías Olvera; Juan Manuel Báez Bolaños, Secretary of Sport; Lic. Daniela Quintana Mena, Director of International Relations; Mtra. Mariana Ortiz Cabrera, Secretary of Tourism; and Mtra. María Guadalupe Espinosa de los Reyes Ayala, Secretary of Environment.
Their presence highlighted the significance of such cross-cultural initiatives in strengthening ties between India and Mexico.
With its blend of athletic vigor and artistic expression, “Azaadi ki Daud” proved to be more than just a run. It became a vibrant celebration of freedom, friendship, and cultural solidarity—an occasion where two communities came together to honor shared values and enduring connections.
