Ruchira reminisces about her bicycle, a humble invention, a powerful symbol of freedom, and a source of cherished memories now held in her heart, for Different Truths.
Invented by Scotsman Kirkpatrick Macmillan in 1839, the bicycle is a humble yet ubiquitous means of transportation that has proven to be a blessing to human society. In a world battling pollution, the depletion of the ozone layer, and dwindling petroleum resources, the bicycle is a breath of fresh air—a ray of hope. No wonder major university and organisational campuses worldwide, including our very own IITs and IIMs, are increasingly switching over to bicycles for short-distance journeys.
Two years after a serious fall and a hip replacement, my surgeon delivered the difficult news: cycling is no longer an option. Watching other riders now fills me with a bittersweet mix of jealousy and nostalgia, as I’m left to live with the cherished memories of my biking days.
During my teenage years, I lived in Ludhiana, Punjab—a city known as the “Manchester of India” and the country’s major bicycle manufacturing hub. While Atlas Cycles are made in Sonipat, Haryana, most other bicycle companies are concentrated in this bustling industrial town.
Fortunately, many of my batchmates came from families in the bicycle manufacturing industry, and my parents, influenced by this trend, bought me a bicycle.
On a hot, sunny day in May, my eighth-grade birthday arrived with a brilliant red bicycle—a sight that thrilled me beyond words. I believe my dad taught me to ride, and we spent hours in the neighbourhood park. I took a few tumbles, which are a normal part of learning, and the scars on my elbows and knees are now cherished mementoes of those unforgettable days.
Once I became the proud owner of my bike, I looked forward to visiting my cousins when they came down for winter or summer vacations. We would roam around freely, taking turns riding the bike, falling off, getting back on, and repeating the process day after day. I still remember a time when we had a clash with some local boys who enjoyed teasing the girls. One pesky boy kicked my bicycle away and pedalled off. I chased him down, hollering all the way, but thankfully it never happened again.
I was on cloud nine when my strict parents finally allowed me to ride my bicycle to school. This special privilege was only for half-day Saturdays, but I savoured every moment of that freedom, merrily pedalling my way down the street. Since the school was just a few yards from home, safety was never a concern.
However, all good things must come to an end sooner or later. After I relocated to Chandigarh (college and hostel) for my university education, my Chandigarh stayed put…for lack of a rider.
After a few years, our family relocated to the National Capital. The cycling that was a way of life in a small town was nearly impossible in the bustling metropolis. So, my parents made the harsh decision to dispose of the “companion of my dreams and escapades”. I’m not sure if the bike is still in good working condition, but I hope it’s bringing joy to its new owner.
Picture design by Anumita Roy
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