Macron Surprises, Delights, Mumbaikars With Early Morning Jog

MUMBAI- French President Emmanuel Macron, known for his active lifestyle, took advantage of the pleasant Mumbai morning on February 17 with a spontaneous jog along the iconic Marine Drive promenade.

The city was just beginning to stir as he emerged from his motorcade, flanked by a scaled-down security detail, and nodded to his surprised but quickly adjusting French and Indian security teams.

Macron, dressed in a simple grey T-shirt and black shorts, began his run amid a few morning walkers on their daily strolls.

Initially, a few early risers and dog walkers did a double-take, some even halting mid-stride, utterly perplexed to see a world leader jogging amongst them. Indians are definitely not used to their netas being casual.

“Is that… no, it can’t be,” one elderly woman muttered, shielding her eyes against the glare.

But as Macron offered a quick, friendly wave to those he passed, a murmur of recognition rippled through the small crowd.

He ran with purpose, his gaze sweeping across the vast expanse of the ocean.

He observed fishermen mending their nets, yoga enthusiasts already deep in their sun salutations, and young couples enjoying quiet moments by the water.

Mid-run, a young boy dared to call out, “Bonjour, Monsieur le President!” Macron, surprised and amused, slowed to a jog, offering a broad smile and a thumbs-up before continuing his pace. The boy, beaming, instantly became the envy of his friends.

His run concluded near the famous ‘Queen’s Necklace’ view, where Macron paused and exchanged a few quiet words with his security chief.

His brief, unexpected appearance on the Marine Lines promenade caught Mumbaikars unawares.

However, as the news spread, people rushed to catch a glimpse of the French President.

It was also a refreshing break for President Macron before pursuing high-stakes diplomacy.

Eyewitnesses said what they liked most was the unassuming way he connected with people, setting aside diplomatic protocols. (IANS)