Agartala, August 3:
In an age where smartphones deliver messages faster than thought and digital wallets have replaced money orders, the sight of a khaki-clad postman on a bicycle, bell ringing outside homes, has faded into distant memory. But on a warm Sunday morning in Agartala, that legacy found new life through the ‘Sunday On Cycle with India Post’ rally—a heartfelt tribute to the unsung heroes of the postal service and a call for a healthier, greener future.
Organized by the Agartala Postal Department in collaboration with the Sports Authority of India (SAI) and Agartala Cycloholics Foundation, the rally was part of the nationwide Fit India Movement. It aimed not only to promote physical fitness and a greener city but also to rekindle memories of a time when bicycles were symbols of service, connection, and community.
The rally, which began at the Agartala General Post Office, passed through various post offices across the capital city before returning to its starting point—covering nearly 30 kilometers. Over 50 cycling enthusiasts from the Agartala Cycloholics Foundation rode alongside postal workers and local residents, turning the streets of Agartala into a moving canvas of unity, nostalgia, and positive energy.
“This is more than just a rally, cycling keeps us fit, keeps our environment clean,” said Maniklal Das, Superintendent of the Agartala Postal Division, who flagged off the event.
He also shared that similar rallies are being organized at nearly 29,000 locations across India by India Post, in collaboration with the Sports Authority of India, to improve the fitness and well-being of postal staff.
For many participants, the event went beyond exercise—it was a chance to rediscover themselves. One young cyclist shared how buying a bicycle transformed his routine and mindset. “Waking up early, setting new goals every day, meeting like-minded people—it changed my mental and physical health,” he said. “Cycling gave me a sense of purpose and belonging.”
As the rally wound through the city’s lanes, it carried with it more than just wheels on the road—it carried stories, memories, and dreams. It offered a gentle reminder that even in a rapidly digitized world, simple acts like pedaling a bicycle can bring people closer, bridge generations, and help build a cleaner, healthier India.
And somewhere in the hearts of those watching and riding, the soft ring of a postman’s bell echoed once more—this time, as a call for fitness, sustainability, and collective hope.
