Ahmedabad: The Rheumatology Awareness Walkathon 2026 was organised in multiple cities across India on April 26 as part of a nationwide movement to raise awareness of rheumatology and encourage public support for people living with rheumatic conditions. The Indian Rheumatology Association (IRA) held simultaneous walkathons in Ahmedabad, Jaipur, Delhi, Chandigarh, Bengaluru, and other cities on Sunday morning.
In Chandigarh, IRA president Dr Aman Sharma flagged off the walkathon. “This is a nationwide movement, and we organised walkathons in multiple cities of India at the same time today to spread awareness about rheumatology,” he said.
In Ahmedabad, the walkathon was held at Sabarmati Riverfront. Around 150 patients, caregivers, rheumatologists, and supporters participated in the 3km walk. The event with a message, ‘Move Free. Live Pain-Free’ was organised by the Rheumatology Association of Gujarat (RAG), in partnership with IRA, and supported by the patient support group Antardhwani.
RAG president Dr Reena Sharma said, “By walking together, we have broken the silence on arthritis and autoimmune challenges. Let us commit to timely diagnosis and lifelong mobility for all.”
Dr Vishnu Sharma, vice-president of RAG, said: “Events like this remind us that rheumatic diseases are manageable with early intervention and community support. Today’s steps forward symbolise hope for pain-free tomorrows.”
RAG secretary Dr Anuj Shukla added, “Movement is medicine for joints. This walkathon proves that collective action can empower patients to live fully, free from the shadows of chronic pain.”
The walkathon also featured heartwarming moments, including a young arthritis patient sharing her renewed enthusiasm for dance after treatment. Caregivers acknowledged Antar Dhwani’s peer support networks.
The event concluded with pledges for follow-up webinars and screenings.