Aasha Malviya, a 24-year-old trailblazer hailing from the Rajghar district of Madhya Pradesh, has embarked on an unparalleled cycling expedition spanning 25,000 kilometers. Her remarkable journey serves as a resounding testament to women’s empowerment and safety in the country. Over the past 10 months, Aasha has pedaled solo, symbolizing courage and determination.
An accomplished National level Mountaineer, Aasha embarked on her journey on the auspicious foundation day of Madhya Pradesh. Recently, she achieved a milestone by reaching the picturesque landscapes of Kashmir, where she received accolades and commendation from the esteemed Northern Command of the Army stationed at Udhampur. Lieutenant General Upendra Dwivedi, along with all ranks of Dhruva Command, lauded Aasha’s unwavering dedication and commitment to her cause.
Initiating her expedition on November 1st, 2022, from Bhopal, Aasha has her sights set on concluding her inspiring journey in New Delhi on the upcoming Independence Day. During her route towards Srinagar, she paid homage to the valiant heroes at the Dhruva War Memorial while engaging with The Army Commander at Udhampur.
“I have traversed around 27 states of India so far. The primary objective of my journey is to cover 25,000 kilometers and champion women’s safety and empowerment. Throughout this extraordinary expedition, I have been fortunate to meet numerous distinguished officers from various states, including the army, who have offered unwavering support,” Aasha conveyed.
Notably, Aasha’s remarkable feat has been accomplished without any sponsorship. Armed with a simple yet resilient bicycle, she has meticulously documented her progress from Bhopal, adeptly handling any technical glitches that come her way.
“The expedition stands as a testament to my unyielding spirit,” she emphasized.
Having faced the early loss of her father, Aasha was raised single-handedly by her mother. Reflecting on her journey, she shared, “Amidst the challenging terrains and scorching temperatures, the warm reception I received in Kashmir acted as a driving force to stay motivated and dedicated to my empowerment mission. As I venture into Jammu and Kashmir, often referred to as the crown jewel of India, I remain committed to inspiring others as I pedal forward toward my goal.”
Aasha believes that her resilience serves as a beacon of hope, inspiring women to embrace their inherent strength and challenge societal norms.