A 19-year-old from Kozhikode has completed a gruelling solo cycling expedition from Cheruvadi, near Mukkam, in Kozhikode to Kashmir, covering thousands of kilometres in just 42 days.

C.V. Masin Muhammed undertook the journey to fulfil a dream he had harboured since his Class X days. Rather than opting for a conventional motorcycle, Masin chose to cycle, embracing the challenge of navigating unpredictable weather and unfamiliar terrain. He returned to his home town on Thursday night (August 20).

“I had been thinking about a journey like this since I was in Class X. I had been on trips with friends before, but this was my first solo venture. The break after Plus Two gave me the opportunity to take the idea seriously. I discussed it with my parents and decided to go. They were initially anxious, but ultimately supported me,” Masin said.

Travelling predominantly along national highways, he passed through Goa, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, and Punjab. The warmth and generosity of strangers eased his journey on numerous occasions, he added.

“People across Maharashtra and Punjab invited me to share meals and stepped in whenever I encountered trouble. Their kindness is something I will always cherish,” Masin said.

However, the expedition was not without its trials. “ The long-distance cycling was physically demanding, and repairing the bicycle proved difficult whenever mechanical issues arose,“ he said, adding that the poor sanitation in certain towns and cities was unpleasant.

Without any formal athletic training, Masin prepared for the trek with just a month of intensive practice. The experience has profoundly shaped his outlook on life. “This trip opened my eyes to many realities. It built my self-reliance and proved that with enough passion, you can overcome any obstacle to achieve your goals,” he said.

His mother, Nishiya, admitted that while the family was initially apprehensive about him travelling alone, they rallied behind him.

“The journey was daunting, and we were terrified about him being on his own. But we wholeheartedly backed his decision. We felt that if he had such a conviction, it was a vital opportunity for him to grow,” she said.

Masin, who lives with his parents and three siblings, hopes his journey conveys a clear message: confidence, resolve, and passion can help anyone overcome adversity and reach their goals.

(The writer Aleesha V. Joseph, is an intern with The Hindu)

Published - August 21, 2026 07:58 pm IST