Hyderabad: February started with a blast as hundreds of people turned out for the second week of TOI's Happy Streets in Hussainsagar, turning PV Narasimha Rao Marg into a vehicle-free zone on Sunday morning.
While children zigzagged through the crowd on bicycles and played games, adults shook their legs to peppy Zumba beats after a peaceful early morning yoga session.
Most of the first-time participants described Happy Streets as a breath of fresh air and said they would definitely bring more of their family and friends next week.
The event, which ran from 7am to 9.45am, was attended by people of all ages. "It's wonderful to spend our Sunday morning on this street that has been transformed into a community space," said Nand Gopal, who was accompanied by his family. "My kids are having a blast with the cycles and I got some much-needed exercise with the yoga session."
The initiative, which aims to promote community engagement and healthy living, featured a variety of activities including games, fitness sessions and performances such as belly dancing and rap music. "The energy is contagious. People are letting loose and having fun, something we rarely see these days," said one visitor to the Zumba session.
The event also included art corners and street performances, adding a cultural dimension to the fitness-focused activities. "It's not just about exercise, it's about reclaiming our public spaces and meeting new people. I love the energy," said Hardik Shah, who rode a duet bike with his wife and son.
Promising another high-energy weekend, Happy Streets will return next Sunday with new activities based on community feedback.