Sandeep Bhapkar and Saikonda complete a 3700 km cycling journey, advocating a drug-free India.
In a remarkable feat of determination and advocacy, Sandeep Bhapkar, the National Coach of Rowing at MIT University of Art Design and Technology, has embarked on a transformative journey from Kashmir to Kanyakumari, spanning an astounding 3700 kilometers in just 14 days. This epic cycle ride is not just a physical accomplishment; it carries a powerful message of ‘Nashmukta Bharat’ or a drug-free India.
Sandeep, along with the dedicated student Saikonda, commenced their incredible journey on August 19th, commencing from the iconic Lal Chowk in Kashmir. Their route traversed through ten states, one union territory, and posed various challenges, including cycle punctures and military checkpoints in Kashmir. They persevered through sunburn due to scorching heat to ultimately unfurl the Indian flag at Kanyakumari on September 8th.
This extraordinary voyage seeks to emphasize that the addiction to cycling, a pursuit that promotes physical well-being, stands as a preferable alternative to the detrimental habits of tobacco, alcohol, and cigarettes. Following this remarkable achievement, the University’s Vice-Chancellor and Working President, Prof. Dr. Mangesh Karad, Prof. Dr. Sunita Karad, Prof. Vice-Chancellor Dr. Anant Chakradev, Registrar Dr. Mahesh Chopde, Dr. Suresh Bhuyar, and Prof. Padmakar Phad extended their heartfelt commendations to Sandeep and Saikonda.
Sandeep Bhapkar, renowned for his coaching in rowing at the university, initiated cycling to enhance his endurance and physical strength. His cycling journey commenced with visits to local destinations like Jejri, Sinhagad, Wari of Pandharpur, and even Goa. Over time, he covered a substantial distance of 1600 km from Pune to Kanyakumari. However, the ambitious plan to conquer the longest cycling route in Asia, from Kashmir to Kanyakumari, beckoned them.
The execution of their vision began with the packing of their bicycles, embarking on the Jhelum Express from Pune on Independence Day. Kicking off their expedition from the renowned Lal Chowk, they relentlessly cycled 200 to 220 km daily. As the landscapes shifted, so did the people, languages, cuisines, lifestyles, cultures, and historical marvels, such as Panipath and the Red Fort of Agra. Their extraordinary journey culminated at the southern tip of India in Kanyakumari, setting a remarkable record in the process.
While traversing through Madhya Pradesh, Sandeep encountered a man indulging in tobacco and posed the question, “Why choose a bicycle when modern tools are available?” To this, Sandeep aptly responded, “Much like your addiction to tobacco, cycling is our addiction. The difference lies in the fact that while you are shortening your life, we are enhancing ours.”
Reflecting on their transformative journey, Sandeep Bhapkar, the National Rowing Coach, shared, “This journey was enriching with many experiences, offering a splendid view of India’s diversity. Through this, we aim to convey the message of a drug-free Bharat. None of this would have been possible without the unwavering mental and financial support provided by MIT ADT University. Our next goal is to trace the outline of the Indian map.”
