Narsingdi's Sajib heads to Mecca by bicycle
Sajib Talukdar of Narsingdi is on his way to Mecca by bicycle. Photo: Agamir Somoy
Since childhood, Sajib Talukder, a young man from Belabo upazila in Narsingdi, dreamed of cycling to the holy city of Mecca to perform Hajj pilgrimage. To fulfil that dream, he has now embarked on a journey of approximately 8,000 kilometres by bicycle, crossing six countries. Earlier, as preparation, he cycled from Teknaf to Tetulia in just 48 hours.
Sajib is the son of Salauddin Talukder hailing from the Talukder house in Ibrahimpur village, Sallabad Union, Belabo upazila. He set off from his home towards Mecca on Sunday morning. Along the way, people from various walks of life greeted him. He spent the night in the Narsingdi district town and left for Dhaka the next day.
According to his plan, Sajib will enter Saudi Arabia via India, Pakistan, Iraq, Iran, and Kuwait. His primary goal is to reach the holy city of Mecca in Saudi Arabia by cycling the long route and perform Hajj.
His family members said that Sajib had a passion for travel since childhood. Whenever he got time, he would go out touring. After passing his HSC, his wanderlust grew even stronger. So far, he has visited 17 countries and all 64 districts of Bangladesh. He regularly shares videos of his travels on social media and YouTube, which has earned him recognition as a travel blogger.
About this dream journey, Sajib Talukder said: "I have set out with my family's support to perform Hajj in the holy city of Mecca by bicycle, fulfilling my childhood dream. I have already obtained visas for three countries. I have emailed the embassies for the rest, and I hope to receive them along the way."
He added: "As preparation for this long journey, I cycled from Teknaf to Tetulia. The bicycle has been specially prepared at a cost of about Tk 1,10,000. To face various adversities on the long route, I am carrying a tent, food, medicine, and other essential equipment. My plan is to cover 70 to 80 kilometres each day from morning until evening."
Sajib said: "The encouragement I have received from locals, friends, and expatriates is my greatest strength. Through this journey, I want to spread my country's flag and reputation across different nations. At the same time, I want to raise awareness about the environmental damage caused by plastic use. I will also highlight the importance of the bicycle as a fuel‑free, eco‑friendly vehicle. If this journey is completed successfully, I also wish to travel around the world in the future."
Sajib's friend Rajan said: "Since childhood, Sajib has had an interest in travel. Out of that interest, he has cycled through various districts. Now, I pray that this sacred journey of his is successful."
Local Maulana Rafiqul Islam said: "Sajib has made the intention to attain Allah with emotion and love. In the past, people used to travel long distances on foot or by ship to perform Hajj. And Sajib has set out to perform the holy Hajj by bicycle. We pray that his wish is fulfilled."
Sajib's father, Salauddin Talukder, said: "Seeing my son's passion for travel, I never stopped him. He has cycled through many districts of the country. As a father, I have welcomed this decision and noble intention of his. I ask everyone to pray that he may cross the road safely, complete his Hajj, and return to us."
Aziz Sartaj Zayed, Assistant Commissioner (Land) of Belabo upazila, said: "Sajib's exceptional and courageous decision is commendable. It is a unique example of the indomitable willpower and foresight of the younger generation. May his long journey be successful and smooth. On behalf of the upazila administration, we extend our sincere good wishes for his safe journey."
