Mysuru: A 16-member team from Mysore Athletes Club, comprising professionals from various fields in Mysuru, recently completed a 200-kilometre cycling rally from Badami to Hampi (Aug. 7 to 10).

Jointly organised by Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), Dharwad Circle and Mysore Athletes Club, the event marked the official launch of this year’s ‘Har Ghar Tiranga’ campaign in the run-up to India’s 79th Independence Day. It also sought to promote environmental conservation and heritage preservation.

The Cyclothon was flagged off in Badami on the morning of Aug. 7 by Ramesh Mulimani, Superintending Archaeologist, ASI Dharwad Circle.

As a symbolic start to the ‘Har Ghar Tiranga campaign’, each cyclist received a hand-crafted Khadi national flag made in Garag village, Dharwad district, renowned as India’s only producer of handwoven Khadi tricolours.

Over four days, the cyclists covered a culturally rich route that included historic and spiritual landmarks such as Mahakuta, Banashankari, Kudalasangama and Anegundi.

They also passed through UNESCO World Heritage sites including Badami, Pattadakal, Aihole and Hampi, combining physical endurance with a deep cultural experience.

The rally concluded at Anjanadri on Aug. 10. It was led by B. Manjunath, Deputy Director of Public Libraries, Mysuru and retired ACP D. Dhananjaya.

Other participants included Dr. Chandrakant Hunagund, Dr. Shivanand, Dr. Veenu John, H.S. Deepak, Ravindra Gundurao, Venugopal, Ramesh Narasaiah, Vishal Patil, Ramya Naveen, Soham Babu, Sadiq, and Dr. Anand, with coordination by Anil and Santosh.