Young eco-warrior gets a Delhi-style welcome, wishes to meet the PM

Kolkata-based Sahil Jha — who is cycling to promote the Save Soil movement — plans to ride for 25,000kms across India. He recently reached Delhi, for the final leg of his journey, and shares how the residents of the Capital are treating him with love and food such as momos at Satya Niketan and chhole bhature in Paharganj.

With a twinkle in his eye and a spring in his step, 17-year-old Sahil Jha has pedalled into Delhi. This is the final leg of the cycle expedition he embarked upon on May 1, 2022, to promote the Save Soil movement. Fourteen months, 11 states and 11,000kms later, he says, “I could go anywhere, but nothing like Dilwallon ki Dilli!”

Sahil Jha, who has been pedalling across India, has now reached Delhi to promote the Save Soil movement. (Photo: Gokul VS/HT)

“Be it a passerby or an influencer, everyone here has been so kind and helpful. Some made me try momos in Satya Niketan and others treated me to a delicious shake in Connaught Place. It proves food is Delhi’s love language,” says the eco-warrior, who is now hopeful of meeting Prime Minister Narendra Modi “to convey the message of Save Soil”.

“My journey began from my house in Howrah (Kolkata) after getting inspired by Sadhguru, who took up a bike tour for this movement, at the age of 65. I thought, main desh ka naujawan kya kar raha hun? So I set off on my bicycle with a backpack... My parents were so upset and told me to never come back! But now, they feel proud seeing my commitment to the environment.”

Author tweets @KritiKambiri

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