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The French President kicked off his visit with a jog along Mumbai’s Marine Drive. PM Modi has also often highlighted the value of daily walking.
French President Emmanuel Macron is on a 3-day visit to India.(Photo Credit: X/Harsh Goenka)
We rarely picture world leaders in a city crowd, doing something as ordinary as a morning run. But sometimes, it is these simple moments that grab the most attention.
French President Emmanuel Macron, who is currently on a three-day visit to India, surprised many early Tuesday morning, February 17. Just hours after landing, he stepped out of his Mumbai hotel and headed to Marine Drive for a jog.
French President Emmanuel Macron’s Morning Run At Marine Drive
Dressed in a navy-blue T-shirt, black shorts and running shoes, Macron was seen jogging along the iconic promenade. His security personnel stayed at a distance.
Industrialist Harsh Goenka was among those who noticed the moment and decided to share it online. Posting a video of the French President’s morning run, he pointed out what stood out to him the most. He wrote, “Seeing President Macron running on the streets of Mumbai, two things stand out: 1. No visible convoy, minimal security, just blending into the city and doing his thing. 2. The fitness level. Leadership needs stamina as public life is demanding. And think of our politicians.”
Seeing President Macron running on the streets of Mumbai, two things stand out:1. No visible convoy, minimal security, just blending into the city and doing his thing.2. The fitness level. Leadership needs stamina as public life is demanding. And think of our politicians 🙈! pic.twitter.com/uCuQ0XGyOc— Harsh Goenka (@hvgoenka) February 17, 2026
Internet Reacts To The ‘Low-Drama’ Moment
The post triggered strong reactions across social media, with one user commenting, “Seeing Emmanuel Macron jogging freely in Mumbai really raises the bar — fitness goals + low drama politics in one frame. Some of our netas need a convoy just to walk 200 meters!”
Another said, “Interesting contrast! In India, even local officials often move with large convoys and heavy security. Here, a head of state appears jogging with minimal fuss. Says a lot about differences in political culture and public optics.”
“Real leadership shows in the small moments. How you move, how you carry yourself, how you live daily. Stamina, simplicity and self-discipline often speak louder than speeches ever can,” someone else wrote.
Why Walking And Jogging Matter
Beyond the political discussion, the moment also brought focus back to something simple: “movement”.
Walking and jogging are among the easiest ways to stay active, yet their benefits are often underestimated.
Both activities improve heart health by reducing blood pressure and lowering bad cholesterol. Jogging burns more calories in a shorter time (roughly 250–350 calories in 30 minutes) while walking burns about 150–200 calories in the same duration.
They also help with mental well-being. Regular walking or jogging reduces stress, improves mood through the release of endorphins and supports better sleep. Over time, both strengthen muscles and improve bone density.
Walking is low-impact and suitable for beginners or people with joint concerns. Jogging, on the other hand, is more intense and suited for those looking for higher calorie burn.
PM Modi’s Push For Daily Walking
The focus on fitness is not new in India. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has often spoken about walking as an important part of daily life.
In 2018, during the #HumFitTohIndiaFit challenge, he shared a video of his morning routine, which included walking on a track inspired by the Panchtatva, the five elements of nature. He described it as “extremely refreshing and rejuvenating”.
During the launch of the Fit India Movement in 2019, he spoke about how earlier generations would naturally walk 8-10 kilometres a day. Today, he noted, technology has reduced physical movement, and people depend on apps to count steps.
He has also promoted the mantra “Fitness Ki Dose, Aadha Ghanta Roz (Fitness dose, half an hour every day)” to encourage citizens to dedicate at least 30 minutes daily to physical activity, whether it is walking, yoga or sports.
In January 2025, while addressing the 38th National Games, he again highlighted the importance of exercise and said, “From walking to working out, do whatever is possible” to reduce the risk of lifestyle diseases like diabetes and heart disease.
Delhi, India, India
February 18, 2026, 11:53 IST
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