Assam’s Para-Cyclist Rakesh Banik to Conquer 9,000-km Journey from Moscow to Guwahati

Rakesh Banik, a determined para-cyclist from Nagaon, Assam, is preparing to make history with an extraordinary 9,000-kilometer expedition from Moscow, Russia, to Guwahati, India. This ambitious journey, named “Volga to Brahmaputra,” marks India’s first long-distance cycling endeavor by a differently-abled athlete.

Supported by his loved ones, Banik will pedal through diverse terrains across Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, China, Tibet, and Nepal, before crossing into India via Siliguri. The four-month adventure is slated to begin in early April, with the official start at the Indian Embassy in Moscow.

Banik sees this expedition as more than just a physical challenge—it’s a mission to shatter stereotypes and demonstrate that no obstacle is too big to overcome. “I’m proud to represent Assam and India,” he said, hoping to motivate others to pursue adventure, resilience, and a healthy lifestyle.

His path to this moment has been anything but easy. Banik opened up about a life-altering tragedy in 2012 when a road accident while traveling from Biswanath Chariali to Kaliabor left him severely injured. After treatment at a private hospital in Guwahati, a medical mistake led to the amputation of his leg. The aftermath plunged him into depression, with thoughts of ending his life haunting him. Yet, from that dark chapter, Banik found strength, turning to adventure sports as a way to reclaim his spirit.

Now, as he gears up for this epic ride, Rakesh Banik stands as a symbol of courage and determination, ready to inspire the world—one pedal at a time.