Father-Son Duo Inspires All at the 20th Mumbai Marathon

The 20th edition of the Tata Mumbai Marathon, held on January 19, 2025, witnessed a heartwarming story of perseverance and passion embodied by the father-son duo, Er. Jehangirji Mobedji (74) and Yazad Mobedji (42). Defying age and health challenges, the duo once again proved that determination and dedication know no bounds. Their incredible journey and commitment to fitness serve as an inspiration to all.

A Journey Rooted in Tradition and Dedication

Residents of Cusrow Baug and regular attendees at the community gym, Jehangirji and Yazad participated in the Half Marathon, completing the race in an impressive 3 hours, 45 minutes, and 24 seconds. This accomplishment was not just another tick on their list of races but a continuation of a family tradition rooted in shared values and passion for running.

Jehangirji began his marathon journey in 2007 with the Half Marathon and later graduated to the Full Marathon. His son Yazad joined him in 2011, making the annual marathon a tradition that highlights their unique bond. “We do not compete; rather, we complete,” says the duo, encapsulating their philosophy of togetherness and resilience.

Overcoming Challenges with Grit

Despite facing health challenges over the years, Jehangirji has clocked an incredible record of 12 Full Marathons and 5 Half Marathons since his first race in 2007. His son Yazad, following in his footsteps, has added his own achievements to the family’s legacy. The pair also participated in the ‘Must Run’ event held in December 2014 at the Bandra Kurla Complex, further cementing their reputation as dedicated runners.

Their mantra of “completing rather than competing” has resonated with many in their community. For the Mobedjis, running is not just a sport but a way to connect, stay disciplined, and inspire others to embrace a healthier lifestyle.

Beyond Running: A Legacy of Service

While their athletic achievements are commendable, the Mobedji family’s contributions go beyond the marathon track. Jehangirji has been a priest at the Dadysett Agiary for an impressive 63 years, serving as the Panthaky (chief priest) for nearly 45 of those years. His deep commitment to his spiritual duties parallels his dedication to physical fitness, showcasing a balanced approach to life.

Yazad, on the other hand, has been working at Vivanta-By-Taj President since 2006. Despite his professional commitments, he has consistently supported his father’s Mobedi (priestly) duties, exemplifying the importance of family values and community service.

An Enduring Source of Inspiration

The father-son duo’s story is more than just a testament to their love for running. It is a powerful reminder that age is just a number, and true passion can overcome any obstacle. Their philosophy of resilience and commitment inspires others to take on challenges and build their own legacies, whether in sports, personal growth, or community service.

Their participation in the Mumbai Marathon, year after year, has made them local icons. Residents of their community often look to them for motivation and guidance on how to lead a healthier, more disciplined life. Their shared mantra, “We complete, not compete,” continues to resonate far and wide, encouraging people to embrace fitness as a journey rather than a competition.

A Legacy for Generations

The Mobedji family’s enduring love for running has not only set an example for their immediate community but has also created ripples of inspiration that extend to the larger world. Their story is a beautiful blend of tradition, perseverance, and service—an example of how dedication to both physical and spiritual pursuits can lead to a fulfilling and impactful life.

As the Mumbai Marathon celebrates its 20th edition, the legacy of Jehangirji and Yazad Mobedji stands as a shining beacon of hope and resilience. They remind us all that life’s greatest races are not about the medals but the memories, not about the competition but the connections we build along the way.

Conclusion

The Mobedji father-son duo exemplifies what it means to live a life of purpose and passion. Their story is a profound reminder that challenges can be overcome with determination, and traditions can serve as a powerful source of strength and identity. Whether it is their dedication to running or their commitment to their community, the Mobedjis have shown us that true greatness lies in perseverance and the ability to inspire others.

Their legacy will continue to motivate future generations to embrace fitness, honor traditions, and approach life’s challenges with unwavering resilience. As they lace up their running shoes year after year, they leave behind not just footprints on the marathon track but also an enduring impact on the hearts of everyone they inspire.

Dr. Cyrus Poonawalla Receives Prestigious Dr. K Anji Reddy Memorial Fellowship for Affordable Biopharmaceuticals

In a remarkable celebration of innovation and commitment to global healthcare, Dr. Cyrus S. Poonawalla, the Chairman of Serum Institute of India Pvt. Ltd., has been awarded the esteemed Dr. K Anji Reddy Memorial Fellowship for Affordable Biopharmaceuticals. This accolade, presented by the Institute of Chemical Technology (ICT Mumbai) under its flagship initiative, the Mumbai Biocluster, highlights Dr. Poonawalla’s extraordinary contributions to the advancement of biopharmaceuticals, leadership, and dedication to addressing critical healthcare challenges worldwide.

A Ceremony to Remember

The award was presented on January 21, 2025, during a grand ceremony hosted at the Hotel Ritz Carlton, Pune. This prestigious event was a vibrant confluence of scientific minds, policymakers, and industry leaders. The venue was adorned with thematic decorations highlighting the legacy of Dr. K Anji Reddy and the spirit of innovation in biopharmaceuticals. A riveting keynote speech by Dr. R. A. Mashelkar set the tone for the evening, emphasizing the need for affordable healthcare solutions and the role of pioneers like Dr. Poonawalla in shaping the future of global health.

The ceremony also included a panel discussion featuring prominent experts from the pharmaceutical and biopharmaceutical industries. Topics ranged from vaccine equity to fostering innovation in developing economies. Musical performances and a curated exhibition showcasing the milestones of ICT Mumbai and Serum Institute of India added a celebratory touch to the event.

Notable dignitaries such as Professor Aniruddha B. Pandit, Vice Chancellor of ICT Mumbai, and Shri Chandrakant (Dada) Patil, Minister of Higher and Technical Education, lauded Dr. Poonawalla’s achievements and underscored the importance of public-private partnerships in advancing healthcare.

The Legacy of Dr. K Anji Reddy

This Fellowship was established in honor of the late Dr. K Anji Reddy, the visionary founder of Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories, who revolutionized the Indian pharmaceutical industry. The award aims to recognize leaders who have made exceptional contributions to the biopharmaceutical sector and continue to drive innovation and accessibility in healthcare. Dr. Poonawalla, as the recipient of this accolade, exemplifies these ideals through his pioneering efforts in vaccine development and affordable healthcare solutions.

The Contributions of Dr. Cyrus Poonawalla

Dr. Cyrus Poonawalla is a name synonymous with global healthcare innovation. As the chairman of Serum Institute of India, the world’s largest vaccine manufacturer, he has been instrumental in making life-saving vaccines affordable and accessible, particularly for low- and middle-income countries. His relentless focus on addressing global healthcare disparities has earned him widespread recognition and respect in the industry.

Among his many achievements, Dr. Poonawalla has been a beacon of hope during the COVID-19 pandemic, spearheading efforts to produce and distribute vaccines at an unprecedented scale. His leadership has not only fortified India’s position as a global vaccine hub but has also saved millions of lives worldwide.

A Legacy of Excellence

This Fellowship adds to Dr. Poonawalla’s already illustrious list of accolades. Over the years, he has received numerous national and international honors, including the Padma Shri in 2005 for his contributions to medicine and the Padma Bhushan in 2022 for his pivotal role in vaccine production during the COVID-19 crisis. These awards highlight his unwavering dedication to improving global health and solidifying India’s reputation in the biopharmaceutical industry.

A Moment of Pride

The recognition bestowed upon Dr. Poonawalla is a testament to his vision and perseverance in creating affordable healthcare solutions for the world. It also reflects the pride of the Parsi community and the broader Indian population, as he continues to bring global acclaim to the nation through his groundbreaking contributions.

The Road Ahead

As the recipient of the Dr. K Anji Reddy Memorial Fellowship, Dr. Poonawalla’s journey serves as an inspiration for future leaders in the biopharmaceutical industry. His relentless pursuit of innovation, coupled with a compassionate approach to global health challenges, sets a benchmark for excellence that others aspire to achieve.

The Institute of Chemical Technology’s initiative to honor trailblazers like Dr. Poonawalla not only celebrates individual achievements but also underscores the critical importance of affordable and accessible healthcare. It is a powerful reminder that through collaboration and innovation, the world can overcome its most pressing healthcare challenges.

Conclusion

The award ceremony not only recognized Dr. Cyrus Poonawalla’s monumental contributions but also served as a platform to inspire and ignite a collective vision for the future of biopharmaceuticals. The event underscored the importance of uniting scientific ingenuity with a humanitarian approach to healthcare. As Dr. Poonawalla himself noted in his acceptance speech, “The true measure of success is the impact we create in the lives of those who need it the most.”

Dr. Poonawalla’s recognition is a call to action for the global healthcare community to persist in its efforts to make medical advancements affordable and accessible. His achievements stand as a beacon of hope and a testament to the power of innovation, leadership, and unwavering dedication to the betterment of humanity.

Khurshid Mistry: Riding the Waves and Conquering Challenges

At 60, Khurshid Mistry stands as a living example of perseverance, adaptability, and triumph over challenges. Known for her stellar achievements in marathon running and sprinting, she has now ventured into the realm of competitive swimming, proving that age is no barrier to setting new goals and achieving greatness. Her story is one of grit and determination, inspiring individuals across generations to pursue their passions fearlessly and to constantly evolve.

Making a Splash in Competitive Swimming

Khurshid Mistry’s foray into swimming has been nothing short of extraordinary. While many athletes struggle to transition between sports, Khurshid has done it with poise and excellence. In October 2024, she participated in the National Masters Swimming Championship, organized by the Nashik District Aquatic Association. Competing in her age category, she won an impressive three gold medals. These victories showcased not only her natural athleticism but also her ability to master new disciplines with limited prior experience.

Her success in swimming didn’t stop there. Just two months later, in December 2024, she competed in the Maharashtra State Masters Games Championship in Nasik. Despite the chilly winter and the daunting challenge of swimming in ice-cold water, Khurshid triumphed again, winning three more gold medals. This time, she conquered the 50-meter freestyle, breaststroke, and backstroke events in her age group. Reflecting on her journey, Khurshid shared, “The most challenging part of this competition was swimming in ice-cold water. I am so happy that in place of running, which I am presently unable to do due to my knee injury, I am doing swimming so well in such a short span of time.”

The fact that this was only her second swimming competition makes these achievements all the more remarkable. Her story highlights her indomitable spirit and her readiness to embrace new challenges, no matter how daunting they may seem.

A Champion in Every Arena

Khurshid Mistry’s journey as an athlete began at the age of 44—a time when most people believe they have missed the opportunity to pursue competitive sports. Yet, Khurshid defied expectations. Her passion and commitment led her to dominate the world of athletics, particularly in marathon running and sprinting. Over the years, she has amassed an enviable collection of accolades. She has participated in and won numerous events at state, national, and even international levels.

A retired senior vice president from UTI Mutual Fund, Khurshid seamlessly transitioned from a successful corporate career to becoming a celebrated athlete. In marathon running, she has a Guinness World Record to her name, and she was recognized as the Best Female Athlete at the National Corporate Championships in 2015. Her impressive track record includes victories in 38 half marathons and 25 10-kilometer races, establishing her as a force to be reckoned with.

Not only has she excelled in running, but Khurshid has also represented India internationally, participating in the Asian Masters Athletics Championship in Malaysia and the World Masters Games in New Zealand. Her accomplishments in the 100m, 200m, and 400m events have inspired countless women and men to push the boundaries of their potential.

Overcoming Setbacks with Grace

Every athlete faces setbacks, and Khurshid Mistry is no exception. A recent knee injury forced her to pause her running career—a moment that would discourage most. But not Khurshid. Instead of dwelling on what she couldn’t do, she focused on what she could achieve. Swimming became her new passion, and she dedicated herself to excelling in the sport.

Her transition to swimming is a testament to her resilience and determination. In a short period, she has achieved what many seasoned swimmers aspire to accomplish. Her ability to adapt and thrive under challenging circumstances reflects her inner strength and relentless drive to succeed.

An Inspiration to All

Khurshid Mistry’s story is more than just a series of athletic accomplishments—it is a lesson in living life to the fullest, no matter the obstacles. Her journey is a shining example of how it is never too late to start something new, to learn, and to excel. She has proven that with passion, dedication, and a positive attitude, one can continue to set and achieve goals at any stage of life.

Her victories in both running and swimming showcase her versatility and commitment to pushing her own limits. Whether it’s breaking records on the track or making waves in the pool, Khurshid has demonstrated that true champions are those who never stop striving for greatness.

Her achievements serve as a source of motivation for everyone—from young athletes just starting their journey to older individuals who may feel hesitant about pursuing their dreams. Khurshid’s life reminds us that challenges are simply opportunities to grow, adapt, and conquer.

Looking Ahead

As Khurshid Mistry continues to explore new avenues and excel in her athletic pursuits, her story inspires hope and courage in all who hear it. From running marathons and sprints to diving into swimming with confidence, she has shown that the human spirit is boundless. We can’t wait to see what this incredible athlete will accomplish next as she continues riding the waves—both literally and metaphorically.

Here’s to Khurshid Mistry, a true trailblazer and an inspiration to us all!