The India Bike Ride 2025 (IBR25), held from 2–5 March 2025, was a major charitable cycling challenge organised jointly by Make A Change Foundation (MAC) and Shree Swaminarayan Temple Willesden.
The event brought together 65 riders, ranging from experienced cyclists to complete beginners who trained specifically for this challenge.
It was not a race, but a unity-driven journey across Gujarat filled with teamwork, spirit, and service.
Riders were organised into four ability-based groups, each free to take their own refreshment and water stops. This structure made the ride relaxed, inclusive, and truly enjoyable for all.
Purpose of the Ride
The purpose of IBR25 was to raise funds and awareness for two important charitable organisations:
1. Narayan Seva Sansthan UK
Provides:
- Artificial limbs for children and adults
- Corrective surgeries
- Rehabilitation and long-term mobility support
2. Healing Little Hearts
Delivers:
- Free paediatric heart surgeries
- Lifesaving intervention for children from underprivileged backgrounds
Every mile cycled supported life-changing medical and humanitarian work.
Ceremonial Support & Blessings
Start Ceremony – Ahmedabad
Special thanks to Shree Swaminarayan Kalupur Mandir, Ahmedabad,
for hosting the official opening ceremony, blessed by the Mahant of Ahmedabad Mandir.
The warm hospitality, prayers, and blessings provided an inspiring spiritual start to the ride.
Closing Ceremony – Bhuj
Sincere gratitude to Shree Swaminarayan Mandir Bhuj,
for organising the closing presentation ceremony, blessed by the Mahant of Bhuj Mandir.
The guidance, honour, and generosity offered by the mandir created a memorable and uplifting finale.
Partnership With Willesden Mandir
IBR25 was co-organised with Shree Kutch Satsang Swaminarayan Temple, Willesden, who played a central role in:
- Spiritual support
- Rider motivation
- Media and live coverage
- Event coordination
Their involvement brought unity, strength, and seamless organisation to the entire event.
On-Ground Logistics & Support Teams
Organising a 209-mile ride across Gujarat required meticulous planning.
Much of the advance logistics—route mapping, safety checks, stops, supplies, and coordination—was expertly handled by MAC.
🚑 Ambulance Support – KK Hospital, Bhuj
- Fully equipped ambulance
- Paramedic
- Driver
- Emergency medical equipment
🎥 Media & Live Coverage – Organised by Shree Swaminarayan Temple Willesden
- Drone footage
- Live video coverage
- Daily highlights
- Rider interviews and storytelling
🚚 Transport Van
- Provided for equipment, luggage, and rider support.
🚐 Support Vehicles
- 2 × 17-seater vans
- 1 Tempo vehicle
Used for:
- Sweeper support
- Water & supply distribution
- Assisting tired riders
🔧 Mechanical Backup
- 2 professional bike mechanics
Provided repairs, adjustments, and technical support throughout all riding days.
🍽️ Food & Hospitality
Food provided during the ride was excellent—fresh, warm, flavourful, and generously prepared by supporting temples and local communities.
Route Summary
Day 0 – Arrival
02/03/2025
- Arrival: Ahmedabad – 3:00pm
- Night Stay: Kalapur Mandir
Day 1 – Ahmedabad → Dhargandra Gurukul
03/03/2025
- Start: Ahmedabad Kalupur Mandir – 6:00am
- 56 miles
- Lunch: Malven Patel Samaj
- Afternoon Start: 3:00pm
- 22 miles
- Finish Night: Dhargandra Gurukul
Total: 78 miles
Day 2 – Dhargandra → Bhachau
04/03/2025
- Start: Dhargandra Gurukul – 6:00am
- 44 miles
- Lunch: Taranga Jain Mandir
- Afternoon Start: 2:00pm
- 37 miles
- Finish Night: Bhachau Jain Ashram
Total: 81 miles
Day 3 – Bhachau → Bhuj Finale
05/03/2025
- Start: Bhachau Jain Ashram – 8:00am
- 37 miles
- Lunch: Dhanity
- Afternoon Start: 1:00pm
- 10 miles
- Refreshment Stop: Madhapar
- Afternoon Start: 3:00pm
- 3 miles
- Finish: Bhuj Mandir
Total: 50 miles
Total Distance
209 miles across 3 riding days
Closing Reflection
India Bike Ride 2025 stands as a shining example of unity, seva, and community collaboration.
With the combined support of:
- Make A Change Foundation (MAC)
- Shree Kutch Satsang Swaminarayan Temple, Willesden
- Shree Swaminarayan Kalupur Mandir, Ahmedabad
- Shree Swaminarayan Mandir Bhuj
- Dedicated volunteers and supporters
the riders completed a truly inspirational journey.
The blessings from the Mahants of both Ahmedabad and Bhuj, coupled with the hard work of logistics teams and the generosity of local communities, made IBR25 a spiritually uplifting and unforgettable experience.
