Emmanuel Macron begins India visit with early morning jog at Mumbai’s Marine Drive before strategic talks with PM Narendra Modi.
Dressed in a navy blue athletic T-shirt, black shorts, and running shoes, the French President ran along the curved stretch popularly known as the “Queen’s Necklace.” (Screengrab)
French President Emmanuel Macron surprised many in Mumbai when he chose a quiet morning run along the city’s famous Marine Drive instead of beginning his India visit with formal engagements.
Macron landed in Mumbai early Tuesday as part of his official four-day visit to India from February 16 to 19. Before attending high-level meetings and official ceremonies, he stepped out for a jog along the Arabian Sea promenade, blending into the city’s early morning routine.
Dressed in a navy blue athletic T-shirt, black shorts, and running shoes, the French President ran along the curved stretch popularly known as the “Queen’s Necklace.” Security officials followed him at a distance while regular walkers and joggers continued their routines, initially unaware that they were sharing the path with a world leader.
Photos and videos of Macron jogging quickly surfaced on social media platforms. Many Indian users described the moment as “surreal” and “refreshing,” praising the informal gesture. The scene showed a different side of international diplomacy—one that felt personal and relatable.
Optics Matter In Diplomacy.
— Devansh Kumar Banga (@BharatKaDevansh) February 17, 2026
French President Emmanuel Macron was seen jogging in Mumbai earlier today.
Macron’s presence in Mumbai comes at a time when India–France defence cooperation is expanding across air, space and maritime domains. pic.twitter.com/PIv9KPkqxa
Marine Drive remains one of Mumbai’s most iconic public spaces. Known for peaceful mornings and busy evenings, it attracts walkers, runners, and tourists daily. Macron’s decision to experience the city in this simple manner created a strong visual message before formal discussions began.
After his morning jog, Macron moved into the official phase of his visit. He will hold key talks with Narendra Modi to strengthen the India–France strategic partnership. Discussions are expected to focus on defence cooperation, trade, technology, climate action, and Indo-Pacific security.
Macron arrived in Mumbai with First Lady Brigitte Macron. Maharashtra Governor Acharya Devvrat and Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis received the French delegation at the airport, along with other senior state leaders.
Welcoming the French President, Fadnavis posted on X, “Bienvenue à Mumbai! A very warm welcome to the President of France, H.E. Emmanuel Macron, and First Lady Brigitte Macron as they arrive in Mumbai! Maharashtra welcomes you! Wishing Hon President Macron and the entire French delegation a pleasant stay and a successful visit.”
En route to India!
— Emmanuel Macron (@EmmanuelMacron) February 16, 2026
Three days from Mumbai to New Delhi to take our strategic partnership even further.
On board with me: business leaders and the economic, industrial, cultural and digital players who give real, tangible life to the ties between India and France.… pic.twitter.com/k3Q9fSckWs
Across Mumbai, authorities put up posters and hoardings to mark the visit.
World leaders often follow tightly planned schedules during official visits. However, Macron’s early morning jog sent a softer diplomatic signal. By choosing to run along Marine Drive, he connected with the everyday life of the city before entering conference rooms and state meetings.
India and France share strong ties in defence, civil nuclear cooperation, and space collaboration. This visit aims to further deepen that partnership.
As formal discussions unfold in the coming days, many in Mumbai will remember how the visit began, not with speeches or ceremonies, but with a quiet jog along the Arabian Sea.
