Mumbai’s cycling revival: how communities reclaim streets for fitness and friendship

Mumbai’s cycling revival is more than a fitness trend; it’s a community movement reclaiming urban streets for health, friendship, and exploration.

Cyclists like Firoza Dadan, Mumbai’s first bicycle mayor, share how daily commutes, despite imperfect roads, bring joy and connection. “I used to cycle to work from Juhu to Dadar, and back home, around 24 kms. Now my office is in Khar and I cycle 8 km to and fro. Yes, the roads aren’t perfect, but I really enjoy commuting on bicycles,” she says.

Ritesh Doshi of the Borivali Cyclists Association highlights the deeper appeal: “While I began cycling mainly for fitness and stress relief, I found that there’s something incredibly beautiful about riding your cycle past beaches and small by lanes in the suburbs.” This sentiment reflects a growing appreciation for Mumbai’s hidden scenic routes.

The pandemic played a pivotal role in reigniting cycling passion. Jaideep Kothari from Tardeo notes, “I used to cycle a lot growing up, but during the lockdown, I got back into it seriously.” This resurgence has fostered stronger community bonds and a renewed connection to the city’s diverse neighborhoods.

Overall, Mumbai’s cycling communities are thriving, blending fitness with friendship and cultural discovery. They are transforming streets into spaces of wellness and camaraderie, rediscovering the city’s beauty from coastal stretches to quiet lanes.

“Mumbai's cycling communities are thriving, reclaiming city streets with passion and purpose beyond fitness. Cyclists are rediscovering Mumbai's beauty, from coastal stretches to hidden lanes, fostering friendships and exploring local flavors.”

Mumbai’s cycling communities are revitalizing city streets, blending fitness with friendship. Cyclists like Firoza Dadan and Ritesh Doshi rediscover scenic routes and local culture, while the pandemic has reignited passion for cycling, fostering a vibrant, health-focused urban movement.