Meenakshi Das, a fitness trainer from Guwahati city of Assam, has embarked on a groundbreaking journey to circumnavigate the globe solo on her motorcycle, a Bajaj Dominar. Aged just over 40, Meenakshi set out with the ambition of becoming the first woman to achieve such a feat in December 2023.
Currently travelling the United Kingdom after covering 28 countries out of her targeted 67, Meenakshi rides for 10 hours a day armed only with two sets of riding gear and minimal personal belongings. Reflecting on her journey, she remarks, “No one cares what religion I follow when they offer help.”
Speaking from the UK, Meenakshi shares, “I asked my family for one year to accomplish this solo bike ride around the world. I wanted to break barriers and demonstrate that women can achieve anything they set their minds to.”
Despite facing the challenge without sponsors or family support abroad, Meenakshi finds joy in meeting new people and embracing the unfamiliar. Recalling her initial apprehension, she describes her journey from Nepal to Mumbai and then Dubai, where she took her only flight out of the country alongside her bike. “I had butterflies in my stomach but was excited at the same time,” she reminisces.
Journey of Humanity on Shoestring Budget
Meenakshi’s epic journey around the world isn’t just about conquering miles on her motorcycle; it’s a testament to the kindness of strangers and the beauty of humanity, all while managing on a tight budget. Striving to save every penny for fuel, she sometimes sacrifices meals along the way.
Yet, amidst the financial constraints, Meenakshi has encountered remarkable generosity. From being welcomed into strangers’ homes to receiving food and shelter from young men in Muslim countries, her journey is adorned with tales of human compassion. Recalling moments of unexpected hospitality, she fondly remembers staying at a bus shelter in Oman, protected by four men who treated her like family.
In Jordan, facing a visa issue for Iraq, a young Malayalee girl opened her home to Meenakshi for nearly 15 days. The support extended by people from Kerala, despite being strangers, showcases the profound bond of humanity she has encountered.
Even in challenging times, such as when she met with an accident in Armenia, the Embassy of Armenia extended a helping hand, providing her with a comfortable hotel stay for recovery. Her journey isn’t just about seeing new places; it’s about experiencing the warmth and kindness of people from all walks of life, reaffirming her faith in humanity.
Tags: Assam's Solo Female BikerFitness TrainerMeenakshi DasSolo World Bike Tour
