Assam cyclist goes viral for his eco-friendly message: ‘Intrinsic part of my life now’

A passerby who happened to spot the placard, had recorded him riding the cycle.

Along shared the video and wrote, “Mano ya naa mano, banda sahi hai (Believe it or not, this man is right).”

मानो या ना मानो 🤷
बंदा सही हैं ! pic.twitter.com/r4JzuSWRA9

— Temjen Imna Along (@AlongImna) March 6, 2023

The thoughtful message soon triggered a lot of reactions and the video went viral on the internet.

Meet Anirban Choudhury, the cyclist in the viral video. He has spoken to indianexpress.com, about his message and the virality it found online.

Q: So, how does it feel about your message going viral on the internet?

A: I feel very happy because the message has reached the people far and wide. It is not about me, but the message.

Q: How did you get the idea of carrying the placard with message in your backpack?

A: This was an idea originally shared by a friend Hiranya Jyoti Das. I liked it very much and decided to share the message by sticking it on my backpack as I commuted to work place.

Q: Since when have you been cycling? I mean how did you shift to cycling?

A: I used to cycle during my childhood. Then, after a very long gap, I took up cycling again in 2019 for leisure. However, since 2021, I am using cycle regularly for commutes within the city. Unlike weekend recreational rides that many people indulge in, I use cycle primarily for regular commutes like traveling to office, going to markets, etc. Of course, I sometimes go on weekend leisure rides too. Cycling has become an intrinsic part of my lifestyle now.

Q: Do you own a car, two-wheeler?

A: Yes, I do own a car. But, I use it sparingly as I mostly use cycle for commuting purposes, unless it’s an emergency or I have to go out over a long distance for work or with family and friends.

Q: Has anything changed at personal level health-wise?

A: I guess I feel more healthy now, both mentally and physically. I had shed some weight too.

Q: How is cycle beneficial?

A: Cycle is very much beneficial for everyone. It can decongest city traffic, reduce pollution, promote health both physical and mental, help save money, etc. In fact, a win-win situation for everyone.

Q: What message do you want to give to the public?

A: Each one of us is responsible for our actions and can contribute something towards creating a sustainable environment. It’s high time we give up little comforts of life for our own health and also for the environment. Regular cycling is the least we can do for Mother Nature.