Udaipur’s specially-abled cyclist is unstoppable

Govind Kharol’s incredible journey defies societal barriers as he pursues his dream of becoming a cyclist, exemplifying the indomitable spirit of human endeavour rarely witnessed. Despite having only two fingers in his partially developed left hand and being born without a right hand, Kharol defied the odds and learned how to cycle.

With an infectious smile, Kharol, also known as Bindaas Govind, shared, “It was my stubbornness that kept me pedalling.” 

Not only does he cycle around Udaipur’s famous Fateh Sagar lake, but he also runs marathons, challenging the stigma that often portrays disability as a hindrance. He refuses to entertain thoughts of what he wishes he could have done, instead acting upon his wishes and embracing the momentum that propels him forward.

His journey didn’t begin overnight. 

“In those years, boys in our society would rent bicycles for one rupee a day. One day, I rented a small bicycle and pedalled, but due to my inability to apply the brakes, I fell,” he remembered, recalling the pain of scraped knees and elbows. 

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Despite the falls and subsequent injuries, Kharol found strength in conquering fear, never succumbing to self-doubt. He considers his ability to cycle as a means to change the way people perceive disabilities.

“First, I challenged myself. Eventually, I succeeded in learning how to ride a bicycle,” Kharol said, extending his hand to reveal his modified bicycle with brakes fixed at two locations – one on the front wheel and another next to his seat. With these powerful brakes, those with regular training cannot ride this machine. 

“My bicycle is my wings,” Kharol said, referencing his favourite film, Forrest Gump, which he watched after its recent Bollywood remake, Lal Singh Chaddha. 

Defying the odds

Having been cycling for over 25 years, Kharol has covered thousands of kilometres, embarking on remarkable adventures. One noteworthy journey was a 1,700 km trip from Udaipur to Bengaluru last year, during which he cycled 100 km a day. 

Recounting this expedition, Kharol said, “Only on this trip did I truly experience India. People were helpful, bright and kind, offering me food, accommodation and water. They took selfies with me, and some even washed my clothes.”

Not content with mere plains, Kharol has challenged himself by taking on the uphill task of cycling through mountains and scaling their peaks. 

“Not challenging myself would feel like a mountain load on my head,” he explained. 

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In 2018, he rode in a group from Manali to Khardung-la in Ladakh, which included travelling 550 km and reaching an altitude of 18,350 feet – the highest motorable all-weather road in the world. 

Kharol’s heart soared as he achieved this feat. The purpose of this journey, which was supported by Adventures Beyond Barriers Foundation (ABBF), was to raise awareness and encourage people to make a difference by preserving others’ confidence. 

Kharol holds a master’s degree in communications. Initially denied admission to school, he later gained acceptance and now receives invitations to motivate students at the very institution that once rejected him. In addition to inspiring students, he encourages people to embrace a more vibrant life, urging them to run and participate in adventures. 

“I engage in these activities because sitting idle demotivates me,” he shared, recalling that he was once rejected during a job interview by a panel that believed he couldn’t meet the company’s requirements, despite being qualified. 

Quest for gold

Kharol is also a photographer, operating a DSLR camera with his two fingers. During his early days, a local alternative education group called Shikshantar in Udaipur supported him. He visited the group daily, learning how to use cameras and computers. 

Inspired by this experience, Kharol established the Bindaas Community Media Center at Shikshantar, where artists collaborate and professionals conduct workshops. He acquired skills in video editing, Hindi typing, newspaper designing and page-making.

Kharol now aspires to travel the world on his bicycle, pursuing his passions as an athlete and environmental enthusiast. He actively raises awareness about climate change and participates in campaigns to promote mental health awareness. 

Last year, he took part in the world’s longest relay run, covering 9,490 km with 20 athletes running for 960 hours.

With excitement in his eyes, Kharol shared his ultimate goal. “I want to win a gold medal for India in the Paralympic Games.”

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The lead image shows Govind Kharol during one his cycling trips. (Photo by Akash Sharma)

Amir Malik is a freelance journalist based in Bihar. He writes about health, women and children and their interaction with nature. He is a Rural Media Fellow 2022 at Youth Hub, Village Square.