Hyderabad, Oct 11: In a moving expression of solidarity, remembrance and hope, ‘Hope of Light’, a unique initiative of Grace Cancer Foundation, was organised at Gachibowli Stadium on Saturday night, ahead of the 9th Edition of the Global Grace Cancer Run 2026.
The event brought together around 500 students and volunteers from different walks of life, who joined hands to illuminate the stadium with lanterns and candles, transforming the night into a powerful symbol of hope, compassion and collective resolve in the fight against cancer.
Mr. Avinash Mohanty, Mr. Avinash Mohanty, Commissioner of the Telangana Standards Authority for Food and Essential Drugs (TG SAFE) was the Chief Guest. He launched the initiative along with Dr. Chinnababu Sunkavalli, Founder and CEO of Grace Cancer Foundation; Dr. Prameela Rani Sunkavalli, Trustee of Grace Cancer Foundation; and Mr. Ramesh Kaza of the Society for Cyberabad Security Council (SCSC), by releasing a lantern into the night sky.
As the lantern rose into the darkness, it carried a message that transcended words—a tribute to those who lost their lives to cancer, a salute to those who fought the disease and emerged victorious, and a beacon of awareness for those who have yet to understand the importance of prevention and early detection.
The evening unfolded through two evocative activities. While one group of students and volunteers released illuminated lanterns into the sky, symbolising hope and the triumph of light over darkness, another group lit candles and walked around the stadium in a solemn procession.
‘Hope of Light’ represents the many emotions and experiences associated with cancer. It honours the lives lost, celebrates the courage of cancer survivors, acknowledges the struggles of patients and their families, and reminds society that no one facing cancer should feel alone. Each lantern symbolised a life, a memory, a prayer and a promise to work towards a future where cancer is detected early, treated effectively and prevented wherever possible.
Light has always symbolised life, knowledge and the possibility of a new beginning. Through this initiative, Grace Cancer Foundation sought to convey that even in moments of uncertainty and despair, hope can illuminate the way forward. The gathering also served as a reminder that awareness, timely screening, preventive healthcare and community participation are essential to reducing the burden of cancer.
Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Avinash Mohanty appreciated the efforts of Grace Cancer Foundation and described the Global Grace Cancer Run as a commendable initiative that combines public participation with a meaningful social purpose.
“I understand that Grace Cancer Foundation has been receiving requests from various State Governments to plan and implement cancer screening initiatives in their respective states. This reflects the importance of the Foundation’s work and the growing recognition of the need to take cancer awareness and screening to communities. Initiatives like the Global Grace Cancer Run help bring people together for a cause that touches countless lives,” he said.
Through ‘Hope of Light’, Grace Cancer Foundation reinforced a simple yet powerful message: Light is a symbol of life. Let us remember every life lost, stand beside every life fighting cancer, and bring the light of awareness to every life we can reach.