I was one of the attendees of the TMM thanks giving program which was organised at the Trident on 16 April. It was a moment of immense pride that an NGO, Association of Parents of Mentally Retarded Children - ADHAR - with which I am associated was one of the major beneficiaries of the TMM 2025, citizen-led giving sporting platform. Incidentally, in my personal capacity running for the TMM cause, with support from friends, I could raise an amount in excess of Rs 1.1 Million for our NGO, ADHAR. The key person responsible for ADHAR’s success is Mr Ajay Mehta, Trustee Adhar, who led this initiative from the front. In his personal capacity he raised charity in excess of ₹11 Million and so also through the company he founded, Me-Hin Tech Edge Solutions, which was the top corporate fund raiser with a contributions in excess of ₹12 million for ADHAR. I find myself overwhelmed with gratitude, humility, and a deep sense of purpose in expressing my indebtedness to all those who supported ADHAR in the TMM 2025.
ADHAR—an organization that holds a special place in my heart - is an NGO that has a highly noble objective to serve mentally challenged adults as a home away from home where they are provided a time and pace of their own to lead a life of happiness amidst the wonderful caregivers and stakeholders of ADHAR. Motivated by the extraordinary zeal, enthusiasm, and leadership of Ajay Mehta, who introduced ADHAR at TMM, the fundraising efforts for ADHAR have been rising year on year.
I am one of many who have helped the cause of ADHAR in fundraising through the TMM platform. What began as a modest effort to raise what I thought to be a highly daunting task of raising a target of Rs 5 Lacs, culminated with an extraordinary achievement that resulted in raising over Rs. 11 lakhs for ADHAR. I must admit that this success is not mine alone—it belongs to the incredible generosity of so many of my very good friends, family, Sainik schoolmates, engineering classmates, colleagues, and many others including the one and only Ajay Mehta, who with their boundless spirit of compassion made this happen. I must also thank my wife, who was more active than me in sending out my written appeal to her circle of friends, which helped the cause immensely.
Last year, in TMM 2024, I took my first tentative steps as a fundraiser, managing to contribute a modest fund for ADHAR’s mission. As a quintessential scientist —shy, and unaccustomed to seeking favours—I found the experience both daunting and transformative. Yet, it planted a seed of belief in me: that even small efforts, when fuelled by love and supported by a community, can ripple outward to create meaningful change, which is what TMM does year on year. This year, emboldened by that experience and driven by the ever-cheering Ajay Mehta, I was compelled to cast my net wider. What I witnessed was a tidal wave of support that reaffirmed my faith in humanity and the power of collective goodwill.
The Tata Mumbai Marathon is more than an event; it is a movement—a celebration of empathy, resilience, and unity. It shines a light on the often-neglected corners of society, giving voice to causes like ADHAR that tirelessly serve those who need it most. For many families, like mine, ADHAR is a sanctuary—a place where our loved ones, mentally challenged adults, are not just cared for but cherished, nurtured, and given dignity for a lifetime. The dedication of ADHAR’s team, under the inspiring leadership of Chairman Mr. Vishwas Gore and other stakeholders is awe-inspiring.
Raising over ₹1.1 Million this year was no small feat for someone like me, who prefers the quiet of a laboratory or a museum, to the bustle of outreach. Yet, every effort I made, every message I sent, was met with warmth and generosity. This outpouring of support was a humbling reminder of the deep-rooted philanthropy, more particularly under this platform of TMM ably supported by TCS, that courses through our nation—a willingness to uplift those who society too often overlooks.
TMM and all the corporates who support TMM deserve to be lauded not just for its impeccable organization or its status as one of Asia’s premier marathons, but for its heart. It transforms a race into a lifeline, channelling the energy of thousands of runners, donors, and supporters into tangible change. It bridges the gap between privilege and need, reminding us that every step taken, every rupee raised, touches lives far beyond the finish line.
This year, as I watched the funds grow, I thought of the smiles at ADHAR—the joy of a cared-for loved one, the relief of a parent who knows their child’s future is secure. That is the true victory of TMM 2025. To the organizers of the Tata Mumbai Marathon, I extend my heartfelt admiration. Your unwavering commitment to fostering inclusivity and supporting NGOs like ADHAR is a testament to the power of compassion in action.
I offer my deepest thanks to one and all who have turned my quiet resolve into a resounding triumph. And to ADHAR, whose tireless work gives families like mine peace and purpose, I say: your impact is immeasurable, your dedication unparalleled.
As I reflect on TMM 2025, I am filled with pride—not just in the funds raised, but in the love, unity, and empathy that made it possible. This experience has taught me that even the shyest among us can find their voice when the cause is worthy, and that together, we can build a world where no one is left behind.
With gratitude and hope
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