#MondayMotivation: Noida teen runs 10 km every night after work so he can join Indian Army - WATCH

A video of a teenager running down a Noida road in midnight has gone viral on social media. Filmmaker Vinod Kapri had shot the video from his car. Sharing the video, Vinod Kapri wrote, “This is PURE GOLD. Last night, at around 12am, I saw this boy running on a road in Noida with a bag on his shoulders. I thought that he is facing some trouble, so I should offer him lift. However, he declined my offer. You will fall in love with him when you come to know why he said ‘no’ to taking lift”. 

In the video, 19-year-old Pradeep Mehra, who hails from Almora, Uttarakhand,  is seen sprinting while having conversation with Kapri. When Kapri offered to drive him home, he repeatedly declined. When Kapri asked why he was running so late, the teen reveals that he works in an outlet in Noida, Sector 16 in the day and travels to his home like this and he didn't have time to run otherwise.

He also revealed that he will have to go back home and cook dinner for him and his elder brother, who is on a night shift. When asked where his parents are, Pradeep Mehra tells Kapri that his mother is unwell and is in the hospital.

Sharing the video, Vinod Kapri wrote, “This is PURE GOLD. Last night, at around 12am, I saw this boy running on a road in Noida with a bag on his shoulders. I thought that he is facing some trouble, so I should offer him lift. However, he declined my offer. You will fall in love with him when you come to know why he said ‘no’ to taking lift”.

Several netizens and celebs have shared the video and appreciated the teen’s spirit.

Industrialist Anand Mahindra: “This is indeed inspiring. But you know what my #MondayMotivation is? The fact that he is so independent & refuses the offer of a ride. He doesn’t need help. He is Aatmanirbhar!”

Retd Army General Lt Gen Satish Dua: “His Josh is commendable, and to help him pass the recruitment tests on his merit, I've interacted with Colonel of KUMAON Regiment, Lt Gen Rana Kalita, the Eastern Army Commander. He is doing the needful to train the boy for recruitment into his Regiment.”

German Embassy India: “Dreaming big and working hard! This 19 year old 'runs' home post his work shift as he dreams to be in the Army! #MondayMotivation at it's best! #PradeepMehra”

Cricketer Kevin Pietersen: “This will make your Monday morning! What A Guy!”

Journalist Rajdeep Sardesai: “This video by @vinodkapri is inspiring and worrying: reflects hope and desperation. A young boy willing to run the extra mile to fulfil his dream to join army but will ‘aspirational’ India have space for him? Jobs, jobs, jobs: 3 words should define ‘new’ India goals! Good luck!”