A Prompt Solution

The silent darkness is punctured by the bike’s ignition. The bike comes alive and so does the ride. Kaka checks his wristwatch; he leaves Mangaluru, with fond memories, at 5:40am! Today is B.O.Y. 2.0’s first early morning start.

Kaka manoeuvres on the single lane highway on high alert. All along the road, homes sit on either side which means unannounced appearances on the way… Also, the sun hasn’t risen yet; and the headlight offers only restricted aid.

As they say, it is better to be safe than sorry! Patiently and vigilantly, Kaka crosses milestones toward Kozhikode, Kerala. Kozhikode, formerly known as Calicut, was where Vasco da Gama stepped on Indian soil in 1498. It is only fitting that our hosts have planned a bike rally for B.O.Y. 2.0 – another noteworthy event – by the beach. Today being India’s Republic Day is an added bonus! Despite the patchy and narrow highway, Kaka reaches Kozhikode well before scheduled time. He is received by the host and fellow bikers. 25 bikers and Kaka ride to the scheduled point of arrival for the rally.

However, the venue is cordoned off for bike rallies owing to the Republic Day date. Police protection is put in place to avoid any situation(s). In short, B.O.Y. 2.0 may have another day off… While chatting, the host – Mr Anees Ali – discusses with Kaka about the morning journey and the
hurdles they faced while communicating with each other. Being a rider himself, Mr Ali is aware of all the difficulties. That’s when an idea hits him.

Kaka is brought to Prompt Motors, Kozhikode. Within seconds, he is asked to try on a new helmet – a Steelbird HF! A convenient product, the hands-free helmet allows the rider to attend calls without taking off the helmet. Also, it uses an AUX cable instead of Bluetooth which in turn saves the phone’s battery. Furthermore, the helmet and its technology are waterproof.

As a humble gesture of appreciation for Kaka’s grit to go on a solo 132-day bike ride, Prompt Motors sponsors the Steelbird HF Helmet to Kaka! And just like that, a major hurdle is nullified for the remaining 123 days!

Meanwhile, a scheduled newspaper interview could also not materialise. Therefore, Mr Ali and a few others ride across the city and answer people’s curiosity. They catch the sunset at the beach. Kaka’s parked bike draws attention and inquisitive onlookers. A small gathering soon forms that is attended to by Kaka. The concept of organ donation and B.O.Y 2.0 is spoken of in a new form today…

Before calling it a day in the famous city of Kozhikode, Mr Ali and family take Kaka for dinner. The city’s special chicken biryani is ordered for the occasion. The table is full of happy stomachs and empty plates!

Day 009
Mangaluru to Kozhikode (Kerala) | 233 kms

– Juhi Kothari / Shetty