Expedition took place to mark third anniversary celebration of Cycling yogi organisation
‘Cycling Yogi' a non-profit organisation celebrated its third anniversary at Dakshinchitra on April 19 (Photo: DC)
Chennai: At 51, P. John Kennedy is a newcomer. A government employee from Medavakkam, he took up cycling just six months ago. On his second hand cycle, he has already cycled more than 6,000 km, and celebrated his achievement by becoming a ‘cycling yogi’ on Sunday, riding to Dakshinachitra to mark World Heritage Day.Kennedy recalls his fondness for cycling in his schooldays, something he had long forgotten till he met a cycling group called ‘Just Bicycles’ six months ago.
He re-lived his passion when he got a secondhand cycle from his friend at a low cost and since then, started interacting with many cycling groups.This was how he bumped into a non-profit organisation called ‘Cycling Yogis’ three months ago and since then continues his passion for the cycle. He said cycling keeps him fit and is the best way to go for sightseeing on the third anniversary celebrated by Cycling Yogis, which also happened to be on Sunday. He was one of the 150 cyclists who started their ride from Santhome at 5 am, rode past Adyar and finally reached Dakshinachitra.
The group consists of people from all walks of life, all ages – from 15 years to 65 years - from schoolchildren to entrepreneurs and from varied professions. The passion for the cycle and an urge to visit historical monuments unites them. They wake up in the early morning every time for any cycling expedition and set out on the journey.
Nandini Sharma, a 15-year-old who was part of the trip for the first time, feels that it is her father who motivated her. “Cycling keeps me fit and reduces my weight. So, I love it,” she said.
Pravin Shekar, an entrepreneur, began cycling three years ago. He also sponsors cycles free of cost to the group. “I used to suffer from dust allergies and many other skin ailments. But cycling reduced it and I can say I am fit. While cycling, I admire nature and use my cycle instead of the car to go to office or anywhere else,” he said.
According to Aparna Rajkumar, one of the volunteers, this year, around 40 women cyclists participated unlike in the other two years.
For the past two years, Cycling Yogis have been organising heritage rides to various locations, including Mahabalipuarm, Pulicat, Royapuram. Ramanujar Moulana, founder of the group, said he could not stay within the monotonous four walls of the gym - he had to go out and explore. “We started this group in 2010 with 150 members and after three years, the number has come up to 2,000. I studied history in my graduation and have an affinity for historical places. So, I decided to make it a heritage ride wherein people will come to know about historical places and Indian culture,” he said.
He added, “Every year, we cycle to monuments and buildings. But, this year, I chose Dakshinachitra as we also need to know about our tradition. The folk art performance is something worth watching here. So, I felt this is the best place to be on the occasion of World Heritage Day.”
( Source : dc correspondent )
Next Story
