No front wheel; 11,000 km journey: Kerala cyclist’s unusual ride to Nepal has a purpose
A Kerala cyclist is undertaking an unusual 11,000-kilometre journey from Kerala to Nepal on a bicycle without a front wheel to spread an anti-drug message.
Saneed, a professional bicycle stunt performer from Kerala, aims to reach Everest Base Camp as part of his ‘Say No to Drugs’ campaign. According to news agency ANI, he has already covered more than 7,000 kilometres during his current journey.
Saneed, a civil engineering and interior designing graduate from Kannur, has been performing bicycle stunts for around 12 years. He also said his team trains Indian Army personnel in parade stunts.
His latest journey follows an earlier ride from Kanyakumari to Kashmir on a bicycle without a front wheel, covering about 7,000 kilometres.
The latest challenge takes him from Kerala towards Everest Base Camp. He usually covers around 50 to 60 kilometres a day, although he has managed as much as 150 kilometres in a single day.
The distance depends on road conditions and the weather. Strong winds, particularly in the Himalayan region, make maintaining balance more difficult. Riding without a front wheel is also considerably harder than conventional cycling.
Saneed says his years of stunt experience have helped him handle the modified bicycle and maintain his balance during the journey.
A ride with an anti-drug message
The cycling mission is intended to take the message of staying away from drugs to Kerala, Tamil Nadu and other parts of India.
Saneed wants youngsters to channel their energy into activities they enjoy rather than turning to drugs. His message is that people can pursue unusual interests and achieve something different without depending on drugs.
He hopes the journey will encourage young people to make healthier choices and follow their interests.
For Saneed, the impact of the campaign matters as much as the cycling feat. He considers inspiring even one person to change their mindset as the real achievement of his journey.