In a heartwarming show of support, Bollywood actor Jackie Shroff joined hands with Fortis Healthcare today to launch Mission 2035, a powerful movement aimed at making India free from Thalassemia by the year 2035. 

 The day began with a burst of energy as more than 2,000 people gathered at Fortis Memorial Research Institute, Gurugram, to take part in the ‘Red Run to End Thalassemia’. Participants ran a 5-kilometre stretch to spread awareness about this preventable but life-altering blood disorder.  Jackie Shroff, who has become the face of this movement, brought star power and sincerity to the event.

Speaking to the excited crowd, he said, “Ending Thalassemia is not just a medical goal, it’s a moral responsibility for all of us. Every year, over 10,000 to 15,000 children in India are born with this disease. We can stop this from happening. Early screening and awareness can save thousands of lives. I’m proud to support Fortis Healthcare in this mission to build a healthier, stronger India.” 

Thalassemia is a genetic disorder that affects the body’s ability to make normal blood. Children born with Thalassemia need regular blood transfusions for survival.

However, with simple blood tests and genetic counselling before or during early pregnancy, it is possible to prevent the birth of a child with this condition. Doctors stress that prevention through awareness is key.

  During the event, Dr. Vikas Dua, Principal Director and Head of Paediatric Haematology, Bone Marrow Transplant, and Haemato Oncology at Fortis Gurugram, spoke about the urgent need for public education.

He said that just one informed decision by parents, like getting tested early, could prevent a lifetime of suffering for a child and their family. He added that Mission 2035 is not just a dream but a real, achievable goal if healthcare professionals, policymakers, and communities work together. 

Dr. Ashutosh Raghuvanshi, MD and CEO of Fortis Healthcare, shared that Mission 2035 reflects Fortis’s deep commitment to preventive healthcare.

He said that today’s Red Run was more than just a fitness event — it was a symbol of collective willpower to end a disease that no child should ever have to endure. He emphasized that by encouraging early screening, providing better access to treatment, and spreading awareness at every level of society, Thalassemia can truly be eliminated.

  Mr. Yash Rawat, Facility Director at Fortis Gurugram, thanked everyone who participated and highlighted the hospital’s commitment to both treatment and prevention. He especially thanked Jackie Shroff for lending his voice and influence to the cause, saying that it would help inspire millions across the country. 

The Red Run also saw the participation of senior dignitaries, NGOs, patient support groups, and many volunteers who have been working tirelessly to raise awareness about Thalassemia at the grassroots level.

  lThrough initiatives like Mission 2035, Fortis Healthcare is strengthening its fight against Thalassemia not just inside hospitals but across communities.

By offering services like screening, genetic counselling, bone marrow transplants, and even access to emerging gene therapies, Fortis is showing that the future can be brighter. Their goal is clear — not just to treat Thalassemia but to completely prevent it, making India Thalassemia-free in the next decade. 

At the event, Jackie Shroff left everyone with a powerful message: “We can’t let another child suffer needlessly. Awareness is the first step. Screening is the second.

And love for our future generations will lead us all the way.”   ---  Would you also like me to create a second, even more emotional or storytelling-style version if you want to appeal even more to general readers? I can do it quickly!