Qazigund, May 25 (KNO): A cyclist from Uttar Pradesh, on a nationwide journey to spread the message of unity and patriotism, reached Qazigund on Monday while travelling towards Leh with the national flag.
The cyclist, identified as Gulshan Yadav from Uttar Pradesh, told the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO) that he had undertaken the bicycle journey with the tricolour to promote communal harmony and brotherhood across the country.
Yadav said he began his journey on March 2, 2025, and has so far travelled through nearly 20 to 22 states, including West Bengal and several southern states.
“My mission is to travel across India with the Tricolour to unfurl it nationwide and spread the message that people should live together with love and unity,” he said.
He said the journey has not been without challenges, as he faced poor roads, steep climbs and harsh weather conditions during the travel. He also said he had earlier met with an accident while travelling through Uttarakhand.
Despite the hardships, Yadav said he received immense love and support from people everywhere. “Wherever I travelled, people from every religion and community welcomed me warmly,” he said.
Carrying clothes, a cycle repair kit, spare tyres and a small stove for emergencies, Yadav said the hospitality shown by people in Kashmir left a lasting impression on him.
“It was raining in the morning, and I stopped at a place for tea, but they did not even charge me. The people here are very kind and hospitable,” he said. "Youth must stay away from drugs as they destroy society. They must focus on maintaining good health through activities like cycling and running."—(KNO)