Bhakra ride inspires Nangal man to take up endurance cycling

For Deepak Kumar, cycling began as an occasional activity but turned into a disciplined fitness routine after he participated in the Bhakra Ride 2.0, organised by the Nangal By Cycle (NBC).

A 40-year-old Research and Development (R&D) employee who commutes to Baddi for work, Kumar said his tiring daily routine left little room for exercise. Holidays were mostly spent sleeping, while his weight had risen to 75 kg and he had developed a noticeable belly.

His brother had earlier participated in Bhakra Ride 1.0. Kumar, who already owned a bicycle and had been riding occasionally for about six months, registered for the 25-km category of the second edition. His registration number was 0001.

On the morning of the ride, he joined a group of five to seven cyclists, most of them retired Army veterans aged over 60. The steep climbs soon tested him.

While the veterans rode ahead comfortably and continued chatting, Kumar found himself struggling towards the back of the group.

He said the cyclists encouraged him throughout the climb, shared pacing tips and guided him along the route. Their ease in tackling the challenging terrain left a lasting impression on him.

Reaching the top of Bhakra Dam became a turning point for Kumar. Inspired by the older riders, he began cycling regularly and gradually increased his distances from 25 km to 75 km, 100 km and 120 km.

He has now completed a 150-km solo endurance ride.

Kumar said cycling brought noticeable changes to his lifestyle. His weight became more balanced, his belly fat reduced and weekends that were once spent sleeping gradually turned into opportunities to ride.

His next target is a solo ride from Anandpur Sahib to the Atal Tunnel in Manali, followed by a dream of undertaking a group cycling expedition across Leh-Ladakh.

Kumar also expressed support for community initiatives such as the NBC, saying the experience had brought changes not only to his health but also to his discipline and outlook on life.