‘Cycle of Peace’ reaches Bahrain

Manama : For Lok Bandhu Karki from Nepal, cycling is more than an exercise.  The 39-year-old, once a math teacher in his country, left Nepal in 2004 on his cycle, pedaling around the world to spread the message of peace. 

Twelve years later, he has now cycled thousands of kilometres through 138 countries, met eminent personalities including Kofi Annan and the Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah of Brunei. 

During his journey he has also been robbed many times and also faced many near death experiences.

Undeterred by such setbacks, Lok Bandhu, who is currently in Bahrain plans to complete 153 countries by 2017, spreading the goodwill of peace and universal brotherhood.

One among fourteen siblings of his family, the peace journeyer says that his initiative is a small step towards creating global peace. He wishes for a community which is free of violence and aggression. 

“We all can make a difference in our own way. I am travelling from each country and continent on my cycle, preaching a simple but very common message of peace. Whenever I reach a country, I meet the people there, especially the Nepalese community and spread my message,” he said.

 In order to fund his mission, Karki sold his property for USD 5000.  The money nearly covered his travel expenses  for one year, according to him. 

Now, social organisations like Red Cross , UN municipalities, Indian and Nepalese people help him fund his journey.

The Nepalese club of Bahrain is organising a formal social gathering tomorrow at its club premises where Karki will be sharing his experience and observations about his world tour.

“It is a moment of pride that one among us is audacious to do such a noble activity, promoting peace around the globe. The members of club, extend our warmest welcome and support to Karki. Coming days, we will be helping him to visit important destinations of Bahrain”, says Kamal Shrestha President, Nepali Club.

Lok Bandhu Karki,  who is planning to finish his tour by the end of this year says that he was inspired by many legendary cyclists from his own country including Pushkar Shah. 

“Cycling is my foremost passion and I have been doing so since I was a child. I try to cycle through most of the land, but when there is an island or a hurdle, I take other means of transport.” 

Karki also plans to make a documentary and write a book about his travel experiences around the world.