Hampi, the UNESCO World Heritage site, became the focal point of a 200-kilometre cycling expedition undertaken by 16 members of the Mysore Athletes Club from August 7 to 10.
Organised jointly by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), Dharwad Circle, and the Mysore Athletes Club, the event marked the start of this year’s ‘Har Ghar Tiranga’ campaign in the lead-up to India’s 79th Independence Day, while promoting heritage preservation and environmental awareness.
Flagged off at Badami by ASI Dharwad Circle Superintending Archaeologist Ramesh Mulimani, the cyclists were each presented with a handwoven Khadi national flag from Garag, Dharwad district, the country’s only source of handcrafted Khadi tricolours.
The four-day journey took the riders through historic and spiritual landmarks, including Mahakuta, Banashankari, Kudalasangama, and Anegundi, before entering the heart of Hampi’s ancient ruins. En route, they passed other UNESCO sites such as Pattadakal and Aihole, experiencing Karnataka’s rich architectural legacy.
The rally concluded at Anjanadri in Hampi on August 10. Leading the team was B. Manjunath, Deputy Director of Public Libraries, Mysuru, and retired ACP D. Dhananjaya, alongside participants from varied professional backgrounds, coordinated by Anil and Santosh.