Deep Happy Sundays Vijayawada – 2016
Deep Happy Sundays Vijayawada: A Vibrant Community Wellness Event by DEEP Trust & VMC On May 1st, 2016, Vijayawada witnessed a transformative community initiative—Deep Happy Sundays. A joint effort by DEEP Trust (Disease Eradication Through Education and Prevention) and the Vijayawada Municipal Corporation (VMC), this monthly event was launched with a clear vision: to promote a healthier, more connected, and culturally vibrant society through the creative use of public spaces. Objective To promote a healthy lifestyle, social harmony, and civic participation by transforming public streets into accessible spaces for recreational, fitness, and cultural activities—free of vehicular traffic and open to all. Key Components of Deep Happy Sundays 1. Health & Wellness Free health checkups: dental, eye, blood tests Yoga, meditation, walking, and aerobics sessions Awareness on public health and preventive care 2. Sports & Physical Activities Traditional Indian games: Kho-Kho, Kabbadi, Tokkudu Billa, Kolatam Modern recreational sports: Shuttle badminton, skating, cycling General physical fitness activities: Zumba, stretching, group exercises 3. Cultural Engagement Dance performances: Classical and Western Music and drama by college students and local artists A platform for local talent and cultural preservation Growth and Expansion Since its inception, Deep Happy Sundays has grown in both participation and impact: Regular Participation: 1000–1200 participants per event Spectators & Visitors: 4000–6000 individuals per session Monthly Event: Conducted on the first Sunday of every month Venue: Bandar Road (MG Road), Vijayawada The concept has now been adopted by several towns and municipalities across Andhra Pradesh, serving as a replicable model for urban community engagement. Stakeholders & Collaborations Organizers: DEEP Trust & Vijayawada Municipal Corporation (VMC) Collaborators: Vijayawada Police Department, VMC Sports Department Sponsorship: Raised independently by DEEP Trust and VMC Support from: Health organizations, educational institutions, and community groups Outcomes & Impact Increased citizen participation in public initiatives Enhanced public awareness of health, wellness, and environmental cleanliness Improved community bonding across age groups and social strata Encouraged the reclaiming of public spaces for peaceful, inclusive activities Elevated the Happiness Index and overall well-being of city residents City Profile: Vijayawada City Area: 68.88 sq. km Population (2011 Census): 10.48 lakh Hotspot Venue: Bandar Road (MG Road), central to public accessibility Funding Source Community-based sponsorship, managed by DEEP Trust in coordination with VMC Deep Happy Sundays has emerged as a benchmark initiative in citizen-led urban transformation. By seamlessly integrating health, sports, and culture, it redefines how cities can nurture community well-being and encourage civic participation. This initiative not only showcases effective public-private collaboration, but also serves as an inspiring template for other cities aiming to prioritize the physical and emotional well-being of their residents. As the program continues to evolve, it reflects the power of community-driven change and the importance of shared public spaces in building healthier and happier cities.