FUN, FITNESS & SWEETS: MPOWER MUMBAI CYCLOTHON 2025 CELEBRATES DUSSEHRA WITH JALEBI-FAFDA CYCLING EVENT

Cyclists typically ride to burn calories-nothing new and you already know this right!. However, this time we rode to boost our calorie intake (with no intention to gain weight). Our bike tires didn’t roll on the path of cheat day cravings, but in the direction of faith and trust.

The festive spirit of Dussehra came alive with Mumbai cyclists coming together for a group ride celebrations.

Where the three C’s – Culture, Character and Community emerged as a unifying force.

The event was organised by Mpower Mumbai Cyclothon 2025 which set the precedent for the main event scheduled to take place on 30th November 2025. (visit townscript.com for more details and register for the event. Using Promo code “pedaltringtring will get you 30% discount).

Over 200+ riders graced the event with much enthusiasm and excitement.

Young and old, the event welcomed a diverse set of riders from different parts of the city.

The presence of visually-impaired cyclists made the event more inclusive and meaningful.

The riders assembled at The Park Club, Dadar on a misty morning.

The site of the Bandra Worli-Sea link in the lap of the Arabian sea and being gently cradled by the waves is mesmerising.

The morning visuals reinforce our courage through elements of nature.

Sea – to see the future in a positive way.
Sky – to aim for big goals and scale new heights.
Air – practice minimalism yet be effective in our actions.
Sun – be strong but don’t misuse power.
Soil – to nurture human relations and grow together.

Guest of Honour Mr. Krishna Prakash (IPS, DGP Maharashtra, Force One) not only flagged off the event, but completed the 5 km loop by riding with the group – a hallmark of a true leader leading by example. In his address to the community, he gave a message of fitness and road safety and emphasized on using bicycles to make our cities healthier, and sustainable. Mr. Prakash highlighted the multiple benefits such as economic, environmental and health a city can gain through increased use of bicycles in our daily lives. He urges every driver and motorists to give 4-feet-space to cyclists and treat them with respect. This video further elaborates his speech.

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Amar Nadgeri, the Bicycle Mayor of Mira-Bhayander said “As one of the Bicycle Mayors from MMR, it was inspiring to attend the Jalebi-Fafda ride, a cherished tradition among cycling groups across the Mumbai Metropolitan Region. This annual ritual is more than just sharing treats-it’s about building unity and togetherness within our diverse cycling community. This year, on the occasion of Gandhi Jayanti and Dussehra, our promo ride attracted many dedicated cyclists braving rains to participate. These gatherings symbolize the growing connection between cyclists spread throughout the city – like vibrant tribes coming together. The message of this Dussehra is clear: to overcome the evils of ego and leadership rivalry, and to move forward as one united force.Thanks to the initiative of the Mpower team and the support of IPS KP Sir, today we also emphasised crucial safety messages: always give at least 4 feet of space to cyclists, and join us in our #SaveTheCyclists campaign. Let’s celebrate our community, ride together in harmony, and make the upcoming Mpower Mumbai Cyclothon India’s biggest example of solidarity and safe cycling for all.”

“For several years, it has become our annual ritual of hosting cyclists at a fixed venue on the occasion of Dussehra to bond over a group ride around worli sea-face followed by traditional Indian sweets of Jalebi and Fafda. This year’s theme focused on promoting mental health and building strength and confidence through conversations, openness and offering an opportunity for free expression of thoughts and ideas and empowering minds. The power of two-wheels when combined with community engagement has resounding effects on human health and well-being. And after a grand Navratri celebration, Vijay Dashmi is a great time to flatten negativity and no better way then to blend culture with sports and propagate good health in society.” – Ravi Agarwal.

“On the dual celebrations of Dussehra and Gandhi Jayanti, it is important for us to stay on-course on the principles of sustainability, ‘More from less for more’. And the pedal power of a bicycle truly offers the solutions required for resolving modern day problems of traffic and pollution.” – Ashish Aroskar.

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Thanks to the organisers from the Mpower Cyclothon team for putting up this memorable event and working towards the larger vision of mental health and physical well-being.

Today’s ride received an overwhelming response and has set the stage for the main event happening on 30th November 2025.

This event would have not been possible without the efforts of all the volunteers.

Thanks to Girish Jain for arranging hot Jalebi, crispy Fafda and Tea.
The event was well captured through the lens of Michael D’Souza photography.
And thanks to all the riders who acted as Road Marshalls and ensured a safe passage for the cycling group in the traffic.
Kudos to the two motorbikers – Vishnu Sarvanan and Vaishali Jain for guiding the cycling peloton.
Big thanks to Hussain, Mustafa and Sejal for guest management.
Lastly, thanks to everyone for participating and looking forward to seeing you at the main event.