Prayagraj,

05 Jan (HS): Echoing the spirit of “Miles behind us, history ahead,” the Veer

Birsa Munda Cyclothon has triumphantly covered 500 km since its See Off from

Ranchi on 28 December 2025. Unfazed by distance and undeterred by discomfort,

the cyclists press forward each day with growing anticipation of their arrival

in New Delhi. Humming the spirited refrain “Kadam kadam badhaiye jaa, geet

khushi ke gaye jaa,” they have braved the winter chill with unwavering resolve,

unyielding resilience and infectious enthusiasm.

On

Day 9, the Cyclothon was ceremoniously seen off from Mirzapur by Col Rakesh

Upadhyay, Commanding Officer of the 101 UP Battalion NCC, accompanied by

spirited NCC cadets. Clad in endurance-tested riding gear, the cyclists pressed

forward to conquer the demanding 95 km stretch to Prayagraj. At Mirzapur, the

team offered homage at the sacred Vindhyavasini Temple, a revered Shakti Peeth

on the banks of the River Ganges dedicated to Goddess Vindhyavasini. With

prayers for strength, endurance and the safe completion of their historic

journey, the cyclists drew upon divine blessings and pressed forward with

renewed determination.

With

heads held high and dreams shining in their eyes, the thought “500 km down,

countless dreams rolling forward” propelled them onward. Their arrival at

Joginder Singh Stadium, Prayagraj, was met with warmth and celebration. The

reception was led by Brig US Kandil, Group Commander, NCC Group Headquarters

Prayagraj in the presence of NCC cadets. A vibrant cultural programme was

organized to honour Dharti Aba Veer Birsa Munda and celebrate his enduring

legacy.

The

Cyclothon team will take an additional halt day in Prayagraj to rest and

rejuvenate, while also visiting prominent landmarks such as the Sangam, Old

Fort, Anand Bhavan and other sites of historical and cultural significance.

Guided by the indomitable spirit and divine strength of Bhagwan Birsa Munda and

inspired by the theme “Shaurya Ke Kadam, Kranti Ki Ore”, the Cyclothon will

resume its onward journey towards Fatehpur on Day 11, its next scheduled halt.

Hindusthan Samachar / Abhishek Awasthi