Cycling exhibits take you around city & world on wheels of time

Bhopal: Cycling enthusiasts in Bhopal experienced a unique showcase featuring an array of bicycles, spanning from vintage heritage models to modern carbon road bikes, mountain bikes (MTB), hybrid cycles, aero frames, and time-trial bikes.The first-ever cycling exhibition in Central India, titled "Wheels of Udaan – A Ride Through Time," commenced at Indira Gandhi Rashtriya Manav Sangrahalaya (IGRMS) on Sunday. The event garnered significant appreciation from visitors, cycling enthusiasts, and distinguished guests.Photographs, posters, and creative installations documented group rides and significant events, including the Harda Fest, Chanderi Fest, Pachmarhi Monsoon Ride, and Ujjain Ride.The exhibition highlighted India's historical relationship with bicycles, previously utilised by the public, postmen, milkmen, gas delivery workers, and various govt departments. It posed the question: "If cycles were useful in the past, why not now?" The showcase presented examples from European nations like the Netherlands, Denmark, Germany, Belgium, France, Slovenia, and Italy, where bicycles remain prevalent for daily transport. Some countries possess more bicycles than inhabitants, with govt officials, including Presidents and Prime Ministers, regularly cycling to work. Numerous participants demonstrated their commitment to the cause by cycling to the venue.GPBRA-RIO (Green Planet Bicycle Riders Association – Ride In Oneness), the organisers, shared their vision of establishing Bhopal as India's ‘Cycling Capital' through increased rides, infrastructure development, and educational outreach. The event attracted participants across age groups from the city, creating a festive atmosphere that emphasised cycling's role in promoting wellness, environmental conservation, and community building.Senior coordinator Sankalp Bhatnagar concluded with: "This exhibition was not just about cycles, it was about our journey and dreams. With cycling, we want to change the way our cities move, think, and grow. Let's ride towards a healthier, greener, and happier India!"Sports minister Vishvas Kailash Sarang and Radheshyam Julaniya, IAS, former secretary, ministry of youth affairs & sports, govt of India, inaugurated the exhibition on Sunday. They commended the initiative for promoting cycling as a means of fitness, environmental conservation, and social cohesion.Julaniya said: "If even 10%–15% of Indians use bicycles every day, we can reduce pollution, improve health, save fuel, and make cities cleaner and calmer." Numerous participants demonstrated their commitment by cycling to the venue.