Empowering Women Cyclists: Highlights from the Asmita Khelo India Cycling League in Chennai

The Asmita Khelo India Cycling League recently took place in Chennai, attracting over 150 women cyclists. This event, organized by the Tamil Nadu Cycling Association, aims to promote women's empowerment and a healthy lifestyle through sports. Dignitaries like M Sudhakar and D Palani attended, emphasizing the growing interest in women's cycling. Meanwhile, Delhi celebrated World Bicycle Day with a massive turnout, showcasing the nationwide enthusiasm for cycling. The initiative, started by Union Minister Mansukh Mandaviya, has positively impacted millions across India. Read on to learn more about this empowering event.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 14, 2026, 12:16 IST

Successful Women's Cycling Event in Chennai

The Asmita Khelo India Cycling League, a significant women's road cycling event organized by the Tamil Nadu Cycling Association under the Khelo India initiative, took place in Chennai on Sunday. This event saw participation from over 150 women cyclists, aiming to promote women's empowerment, fitness, and sporting excellence. The race route was set along the Island Grounds Loop, starting from Swamy Sivananda Salai near the MLA Hostel (TV Tower).

Event Highlights and Dignitaries

Among the dignitaries present were M Sudhakar, President of the Tamil Nadu Cycling Association, and D Palani, General Secretary of the Chennai District Cycling Association. The event showcased enthusiastic participation from the cyclists, reflecting the increasing interest in cycling and sports among women. As part of the Asmita Khelo India programme, the league aims to encourage women's involvement in sports and promote a healthy, active lifestyle. The event concluded with prize distributions, where participants and officials highlighted the significance of sports in empowering women and inspiring future generations of athletes.

Nationwide Cycling Celebrations

On the same day, Delhi celebrated World Bicycle Day at the iconic Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, where a large crowd gathered. The event was led by Union Minister of Youth Affairs & Sports, Mansukh Mandaviya, alongside notable personalities such as actor Vikrant Massey, silver medal-winning boxer Nupur Sheoran, and Kannada actress Ragini Dwivedi. Over 15,000 fitness enthusiasts participated in New Delhi, while more than 400,000 individuals joined the single-day cycling initiative across various locations in India, from Kargil and Leh to Kanyakumari and Alleppey, and from Tripura to Vadodara. Initiated by Mansukh Mandaviya in December 2024, this cycling initiative has positively impacted over 3 million lives across thousands of locations in India.